Laotto Music Lessons

nearly all prepared and ready for their lessons. This makes both Coach and student more effective and the time together more enjoyable.

Perhaps you are reading this with both a little excitement and a little concern. Finding the right person for your or your student can be intimidating. A short introduction follows so that you know a little about me and my philosophy which can assist you make an informed decision. If we are a good fit, lessons and learning progress more joyfully.

I have been teaching music, performing music and enjoying music since I was a tiny three-year old. My first piano lessons were at age seven. I have since taught the students of former students! How fun is that?

Music has blessed my life in countless ways and given me opportunities I'd never dreamed of. Teaching at the Young Artists Conservatory of Music; Singing in Carnegie Hall, Performing across Europe and teaching the best students for over 25 years has been a delight.

I believe strongly that those who spend their time and resources for musical education are some of the brightest and most intelligent people around. Each of my students have their own individual goals and reasons for taking music lessons, which we revisit monthly. I believe that my role is to be a support and tool for them/you to accomplish the goals set, working with music that delights and educates.

You want the best teacher, who offers information, example, practice and performance opportunities and then gets out of the way of the student's own "voice" (whether playing or singing) so that they can be free to create their own style.

*** Lesson Details ***
In our lessons, we work with a predictable schedule of balance. We have weekly exercises to make strong fingers and or voices, and technique and theory practice to hone skills that will improve our performances, whether they are for others or for our own benefit. Each student of piano can learn how to create and write their own music in time, choose their own pieces to work on, and have a say in their classical and performance goals.

We have a program of advancement, so you and your loved ones can visually see your progress and measure your skills, complete with awards and trophies.

What you learn, has everything to do with your commitment. Practice doesn't make perfect, Practice makes permanent. Only perfect practice makes perfect.

Learning the piano ought to be a JOY. I believe in playing the piano, not 'practicing' it. Enjoy what you do, and you'll do it longer and with celebration instead of duty.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Piano - upright; CD player; Music stands; Dozens of music books and lesson materials; flash cards; computer and music writing program; mic and mirror, syllabus.

*** Travel Equipment ***
No travel.

*** Specialties ***
Over the years I have dabbled in most methods, but finally come to use my own syllabus and musicianship. I can easily adapt to your favourite if that is your desire. I specialize in a total music education, not merely in learning notes. It is like looking in a mirror and only seeing eyes and skin. Music has many facets and we discover all of them.

dent become more comfortable with the trouble spots. The next part of the lesson will be used to introduce new material.

"I believe learning the language of music can be a great adventure." ~Julia

f learning, musicianship and artistry. I have most recently taught in Jerry City, Ohio for Elmwood Jr./Sr. High School, and have also been active for the past six years as a master class instructor for St. Peter's Lutheran Church, located in Ft. Wayne, IN. I am very happy to be working with you!

*** Lesson Details ***
You will find my teaching methods rewarding, enriching and exciting as you grow and learn. Students will be encouraged to take their own individual journey in singing. You can expect to work on diction, theory, breathing, and developing a general healthy technique.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Piano and CD player. There is also seating for parents who wish to sit in on lessons.

*** Specialties ***
I am a classically trained singer and most of my training is in art song and opera. However, I do have a vast knowledge of musical theater literature and I would feel very comfortable in that genre. I am also well versed in choral literature and gospel.

years as college professor, where I taught classical composition, jazz piano, recording, film scoring and recording arts. Since leaving that world, I have been very happily and deeply engaged in gigging, teaching and writing the music that comes from deep in my soul and which expresses all my influences.

My approach to teaching also reflects all my skills, and starts with what you want to do with your music. If you want to develop your songwriting skills, we approach from any angle-harmony, development of basic ideas, or seeing what makes a Beatles or Beyonce tune work. If you want to develop your soloing chops, we can look at the deep traditions of jazz and blues. If you're an improvising player who wants to understand theory or develop your reading, I've got strong qualifications there. If you're a beginner, that's cool too! If you have a passion, then everything else follows with an experienced teacher. Bottom line-if you have an idea of where you want to go with your music, I probably have the experience to help you get there, no matter what the style!

I teach from my home studio, where I have a beautiful grand piano and many keyboards. I usually play bass with my students. I can provide customized backing tracks for you to practice with. I also teach on line. I can provide many testimonials from world-class professionals and former students who are now making a big splash.

e my experience and my love for French with all students and their families.

Sincerely,

Elena Tikhonova