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Mary S.

Mary S.

“Learn to play piano!”

  • Located in

    Saint Paul, MN, 55126

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800-252-1508
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  • About
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  • Student Reviews 6
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  • General Info
    • TakeLessons Certified Teacher

      TakeLessons Certified Teacher

      Our rigorous hiring process requires a completed application; an interview with our professional recruiting specialists; personal and professional reference checks; and annual criminal background checks.
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    • Background Check Complete

      Criminal Background Check

      In order to ensure the safety of our students, all teachers undergo a thorough criminal background check, which includes: Social Security number trace, multi-state criminal search and a nationwide sex offender registry search.
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    • Levels: Beginner to Advanced
    • Ages: 5 & up
    • In-Home Lessons: No
    • In-Studio Lessons: Yes
    • Online Lessons: No
    Subjects Taught In Person
    Piano, Music Theory
    Education
    Bemidji State University - Music Performance - 2003-2004
    North Central University - Music Performance - 2007-2010 (Bachelor's degree received)
    Specialties
    I can play and teach in a variety of genres, from classical to pop to church music. I teach students to sight-read, and I can also teach students to play off a chord chart or by ear if these are things that student expresses an interest in.

    I've found that the method books available to piano students are thorough and effective, especially for beginning students of elementary age. I've used different books, including Faber & Faber, Alfred, and Hal Leonard. All of these have ...
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    Lesson Details
    I believe music has incredible educational value, but I also believe that it should be enjoyable. Every music student is different and has a different purpose for wanting to learn music, and I enjoy working with students to help them achieve their goals.

    Being a well-rounded musician has not only helped me in my music career, but it has helped me experience and enjoy many different kinds of music. I expect students to play different types of music with a main focus on one genre. If you ...
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    About
    I began taking piano lessons on a whim in middle school, but it didn't take long before I realized I was completely in love with music. I enjoy playing and teaching many types of music, from classical to rock to hymns and church music. I learned to play by ear at the same time I learned to sight read, and both approaches have helped me to learn and enjoy the music I play.

    I graduated in December 2010 with a BA in Music Performance from North Central University, here in the Twin Cities. I ...
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    Equipment
    In-Studio: Fellowship Hall - Baby Grand or Sanctuary w/ Grand; seating for parents

    In-Home: I can provide sheet music samples for student to choose from (when applicable) and listening examples from pieces. I expect students to provide the piano, bench, and personal music books.

  • Mary's Photos

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    Mary's Audio Clips

    Mary's Videos

  • Rated 4.8 out of 5 by 6 reviewers.
    Rated 5 out of 5 by A gifted teacher for teaching Piano Lessons Mary has inspired my daughter Joanne to want to play piano. She has a way of balancing what the kids like to play and what the parents want in a music lesson for their kids. Joanne has not lost interest like we thought she might, but has wanted to Accelerate learning piano. She gets them playing music right away and then little by little explains more and more about music itself. It is an all-around winning strategy, especially when teaching kids. Thank Mary May 3, 2013
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Great teacher Mary was able to help me get a basic understanding of the piano and help me to read music. Mary did a terrific job of using my strengths to make it easier for me to learn to play the piano better. September 13, 2012
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Mary is very helpful without being too demanding. She really lets me take the lead but makes suggestions ranging from how to practice a piece to how to accent it. She is exactly the kind of teacher I was hoping for! May 4, 2012
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Mary's GREAT! She teaching my 4 year old daughter right now. This coming week will only be our 4 lessons, but my daughter can play the keys with out looking at the notes or numbers on the keys. April 2, 2012
    Rated 4 out of 5 by Shawn Ranning Mary always does a wonderful job with our daughter. April 2, 2012
    Rated 5 out of 5 by Understands what Martin needs, encouraging, and cheerful. Excellent knowledge of theory and technique. November 11, 2011

  • Getting Started

    Excited about jumping into music lessons? Before you can get to the guitar tabs, violin concertos, and vocal riffs, take a moment to think about the logistics of your lessons.
    Lesson Length
    There are a few things to consider when choosing between 30-, 45- or 60-minute lessons. First and foremost, take your age and experience level into account. You'll also want to think about your long- and short-term goals, and the time you'll need to reach them. Most importantly, consider how long you or your child is able to stay focused.
    Lesson Location
    Teachers have the option to display availability for in-home, in-studio, and online music lessons. In-home lessons take place at your house, in-studio lessons are conducted at the teacher's home or professional studio, and online lessons are taught over the internet via live video chat.

    Book Your Lessons Online

    Scheduling your lessons is simple and quick! The prompts will guide you through each step, from securing your lesson time to selecting the payment plan that works best for you.
    Scheduling Lessons
    After you've selected your teacher, click on the Availability tab to see which time slots and days are open.
    Booking Options
    Click the "Book Online" button to get started. Enter in your contact information, and the prompts will guide you through payments, program options, and confirming your schedule. Learn more about our booking policies.
    Payment and Billing
    We make paying for your lessons convenient and hassle-free! Prices vary based on several factors, including the city you live in, the length of your lessons, and whether you're taking them at home, in your teacher's studio, or online. Lessons are paid for in advance, which locks in your time slot.
    Signing Your Customer Agreement
    Signing your Customer Agreement and completing your Student Questionnaire is the last step! The questionnaire will give your instructor valuable information about your goals and experience level, and give him or her time to create a customized lesson plan right from the start.

    Start Your Lessons

    Now the excitement can really begin! Consider the following to ensure an exceptional first lesson...
    Prepare for Your First Lesson
    Once you've completed the last step, your teacher will call you within the next couple of days to confirm your first lesson time and provide you with directions to their studio, if needed. We also encourage you to discuss your goals and any other questions you may have.
    What To Expect
    Every teacher is different, but most first lessons begin with an assessment of where you are in your studies. At a beginner level, you might review the basics of your instrument, such as the different parts, how to hold it correctly, and proper care and maintenance. For voice, this may be the time you learn about breathing and posture.
    Reach the Goals You Set
    Every TakeLessons student is unique, and so is your lesson plan! You'll work with your instructor to develop a plan suited to meet your specific goals. Most TakeLessons instructors will also keep track of your progress with a lesson journal.

    Programs & Pricing

    The billing management tools in your online account help you keep track of your upcoming payments. And with several lesson programs available, you can select the one that fits your individual needs.
    100% Money Back Guarantee
    If you're not completely satisfied with your first lesson, we'll gladly find you another instructor or refund your entire lesson purchase.
    Can I pay when I get to the lesson?
    In order to reserve your time slot, we require payment at the time of booking, which must be at least seven days before your first lesson takes place.
    How does billing work?
    Lessons are paid for in advance, which reserves your time slot and the teacher that you want. Your specific billing date will depend on the lesson program you select.
    What forms of payment do you accept?
    At this time, we accept payments via Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express. You also have the option to pay with a debit card. We do not accept payment via cash, check, or money order.
    Do you offer a free trial lesson?
    We don't offer a free trial lesson; however, we're so confident that you'll love your lessons that we offer new customers a 100% Money Back Guarantee. If you take your first lesson and decide that you don't want to continue, we'll refund the amount you paid INCLUDING the lesson you've already taken. To request the Money Back Guarantee, simply notify us within 72 hours of your first lesson.
    Do you offer any discounts?
    At this time, we don't offer any discounts. However, if you are booking two students for consecutive in-home lessons, you'll only be charged one travel fee, instead of one fee per lesson.

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