Piano for Beginners: An Intro to Reading Music & Finger Exercises

I am a pianist and singer who started learning to play the piano at age 6, and I love teaching all students of all experience levels. Professionally, I have worked with different theater and opera companies as a lead actor and as a musician. I have also worked in many different church positions as a musician and singer. I have many years of teaching experience with piano at all experience levels.

I teach how to read music, understand the theory behind the music, and the technique needed in a patient atmosphere at the pace of the student. I also teach you how the piano works and the different types of pianos as well as the history of keyboards used for different classical music. The lessons are geared toward the goals of the student no matter what level is desired. I can't wait to work with you!

I am a professional teacher/studio musician/performer/producer with over 17 years of private teaching experience and a graduate of the University of Miami Studio Music and Jazz program in 2002. During 1996-98 I studied jazz guitar at the New World School of the Arts music program under the direction of J.B. Dyas and Dr. Roby George. Upon graduation, I was immediately accepted to the University of Miami jazz guitar program under the direction of Randall Dollahan. It was during this time that I also refined my skills as a classical guitarist and as a composer/arranger. In addition, I began passing my knowledge onto friends and eventually began working as a teacher.

My ability to play almost any genre of music is the fruit of past experience playing with an impressive variety of music groups, including jazz combos, symphony orchestras, Andean world music ensembles, and several rock and pop groups as well. As a studio guitarist I have recorded for various artists including Jaci Velasquez, Carlos Ponce, Alexandre Pires, and Noelia.

I have always been fascinated with how music is created and who works behind the scenes of performances and recordings. I started playing the flute in elementary school, piano in junior high school, and singing in high school. I have been teaching for over ten years now. Working with students both in person and online has been amazing. With online lessons I am able to work with students who love the convenience of being at home and in person I can show students what it is like to really grow! I love my students of all ages, and can only hope to show others how amazing music can be. I have worked with a handful of students with special needs and am comfortable teaching in a non-traditional style. I am currently preparing to complete my certification in music therapy. Those who can do teach, and those who can teach totally do!

As a music major I developed a deeper understanding of music theory, piano, voice, and theater. I received my A.A. in Music at College of the Desert and my Bachelor of Music degree at the University of Redlands- which I attended on a music scholarship. I have played leading roles in several operas and musicals in Southern California, including Gianni Schicchi, Die Fledermaus, La Boheme (DTL nominee), The Impresario, The Grand Duke, Patience (DTL award), Cosi fan tutte, Little Women, Seussical, and many more. I have also appeared in several concerts, opera scenes, competitions (winning music scholarships and theater awards), and worked as a singer in churches, restaurants, and in pop bands. I continue to stay active in the performance industry, because performing is a part of who I am and I could never live without it!

With this experience under my belt, I feel a desire to pass on my knowledge to students. I carry a strong passion to help people develop their abilities and make them their own. I truly believe that if someone wants something out of life then they WILL achieve it with dedication, perseverance, confidence, and by having FUN doing it!