Chester Heights, PA Piano Lessons

work with, and learn from a lot of different musicians. (The Recording Academy is the organization that created the most prestigious
award in music, the Grammy). I am the band leader at my church Montco Bible Fellowship. I have experience as an audio tech in the studio and for a live stage, and have consulted for organizations looking to setup a sound system/studio. I enjoy recording my own music in my home studio, and learning to play new instruments. I hope to pass my love for music to the next generation!

*** Lesson Details ***
I am a very laid back instructor... as you will find out! I understand that not everyone learns at the same rate; however, I am a perfectionist and don't allow students to advance until they have learned a particular skill. I would rather a student take forever to learn a song, and practice it with good technique, than be able to play it right away with poor form and posture! I reinforce the value of working toward goals and celebrate with students when they reach them.  I understand that every student has different interests and reasons for wanting to learn an instrument... I try to focus on the areas that are of interest to the student, because a student who is enjoying themself will excel.  This does not mean that the subjects and skills that are not of interest will not be taught, because I also believe in being a well-rounded musician. I teach both jazz (theory/improvisation) and classical (composed) music.

*** Studio Equipment ***
My studio is currently not optimal for teaching... I hope to change this soon!!

*** Travel Equipment ***
I provide lesson books and other learning materials, but expect to be reimbursed. I expect the student to have their own instrument/equipment. Piano students are required to have a piano or a keyboard with 88 weighted keys (hammer-action), a piano bench and a pedal. Guitar/bass students must have an acoustic/electric guitar/bass with a strap or footstool, pick, and cable and amplifier if applicable! Digital audio students must have their own computer, Digital Audio workstation (software), digital audio interface, speakers/headphones and midi controller. ALL STUDENTS MUST PROVIDE A NOTEBOOK (college rule or staff)!!

*** Specialties ***
I specialize in classical and jazz piano! I am more than proficient at most production software including: reason, fl studio, ableton live... and other editing software such as sony sound forge, audacity, etc...

nd music so that you can learn on your own!

*** Studio Equipment ***
dedicated music room; 7 foot Steinway B grand piano

*** Specialties ***
I'm a classically trained pianist. I teach students to read music. I teach all kinds of music not just classical.

lesson, I balance technical skills, ear training, and music theory to assure that each student walks away a complete musician, all structured around your musical goals.

I look forward to helping you on your musical journey.

*** Travel Equipment ***
The student must provide their own instrument and assigned method books. I will provide a music stand if necessary, and other useful instructional tools (metronome, tuner, etc.)

*** Home Studio ***
I offer lessons in my home located just off of Broad Street in South Philadelphia near the Tasker-Morris subway stop. I am equipped with a well-playing upright piano and plenty of space for musical activities. There is ample street parking in the area during the afternoon and early evening, and our living room is available to parents while students take their lesson. Students who travel to me for lessons gain all the benefits of performing on a piano, rather than an electric keyboard, and have access to many more resources that I am able to offer from my home, such as recordings and method books.

*** Specialties ***
I specialize teaching younger students fundamentals in music in a fun and exciting way, as well as teaching the importance of learning music to exceed personal and educational goals.

ar recitals where students can show off their new skills

-I bring all materials to lessons for your convenience (excluding piano)

-singers receive recorded warm ups to practice with at home

-I am skilled at helping students with ear training if they need it for voice, most of my students can match pitch after a month of singing lessons no matter the trouble they have had before

-every student gets a "new student kit" at their first lesson including a list of performance opportunities and a vocal health guide for singers

-weekly instructional videos for voice sent

-weekly links to articles about music and the brain

-I respond to student concerns and questions within 24 hours

I welcome students of all ages and work hard to make music accessible for everyone.

-Young kids in voice can expect their lessons to be fun and educational including using visual tools like scarves and shakers, and imaginative play to learn vocal techniques needed to sing on pitch and with proper breathe control.

-Children in piano lessons will learn music theory and piano technique through simple songwriting exercises, theory games, visual tools and more. They will learn about composer's lives and musical styles, providing them with a well-rounded lesson experience.

-Older children and adult singers can expect to learn about their vocal anatomy in order to better control of their voice and become independent during practice sessions at home. They will learn how to improve breathe control, posture and diction. Time during lessons will also be dedicated to developing stage presence and discussing vocal health. Singers will be allowed to select repertoire from the genre of their choice. They can also learn how to harmonize and sight-sing in lessons if they would like.

-I teach beginning guitar students and help them learn how to play with proper technique and accompany themselves when singing. These students learn to read staff and tab and shape different chords on the guitar. I use theory games and visual tools for kids to make lessons fun

-Music theory/composition students will be taught how to read and write music. Students will be invited to improvise on the piano and record their improvisations.They will be taught how to sight-sing in order to learn how to notate any melodies in their head
They will learn how music has changed and been influenced throughout history. They will learn how to read lead sheets and use stylistic invariants in their playing. They will be provided with honest feedback and constructive help on their compositions.They will learn how the human brain processes music and how best to capitalize upon this process for the greatest audience appeal.

-I have experience teaching students with special needs and adjusting lessons to help them meet their goals.

About me!

I am a Westminster Choir College '11 Alum  who graduated with a Bachelor's of Arts in Music, summa cum laude. I also have my master's degree in music therapy from Drexel University. I am also a Member of the National Association of Teachers of Singing and a  Board Certified Music Therapist. During my time at school I performed at Carnegie Hall and the Kimmel Center, and did music therapy work with older adults, as well as disadvantaged children and parents.

I also have my own parent/child music class I host every Thursday September-May. It's never to early to start a music education!

I have been teaching for over four years and now have a studio of more than 70 happy students. Teaching music is my passion, and I love seeing students grow!

I often draw upon my experience from my master's degree in music therapy, which taught me that music can have a profound effect on the human brain and upon cognitive development.  My skills as a music therapist allow me to better understand a student's cognitive strengths and areas for improvement, and to develop individualized teaching strategies which utilize student strengths.

*** Studio Equipment ***
My studios are equipped with keyboard, guitar or piano, as well as a sizable repertoire of classical, broadway and popular music. ' I also have a mirror for voice students to see how their body is moving when singing and visual tools for students like scarves, whiteboard, markers, crayons...ect. I am more than happy to help students find any music they may need for lessons that is not already in my library.

I recommend the following books for piano students (listed by age):
Ages 4-6:
My First Piano Adventure, Lesson Book A with by Nancy & Randall Faber
Ages 6-12:Piano Adventures - Level 1: Lesson Book [Book]Faber Piano Adventures

Ages 12 and up:

Adult All-In-One Course: Alfred's Basic Adult Piano Course, Level ...by Willard A. Palmer

Voice: Alfred's Teach Yourself to Sing
*** Specialties ***
I specialize in ear training, sight-singing and knowing and understanding vocal anatomy. Many of my students are students who have gone on to score lead roles in their schools or community theater performances, as well as lead singers of local bands looking to improve their techniques and improve their vocal health.

I specialize in theory and sight-reading for piano and theory students.

I also specialize in teaching those with special needs.

ove for music, everything grows naturally. I teach to help my students find those strengths in themselves to live a fulfilling life through their instrument.

***Lesson Details***

We create daily, weekly, and monthly goals for you to achieve.

Guitar: After 3 to 6 months of learning with me, you will have a basic knowledge of chords, how to read musical notation, strumming patterns and basic rhythms. Most importantly, you will have learned 3 or 4 songs of your choice so that you can experience the joy of expressing yourself through music.
To achieve these results, you must be willing to practice 20-30 minutes a day most days each week.

***Specialties***

I specialize in teaching students to learn to play by ear and improvise songs based on their tastes, style, and ability level. I also walk students through how to write and record semi-professional quality songs with drums, vocals, guitar, and piano. Music genres I cover are mainly Pop, Pop/Rock, Folk, Blues Rock, Classic Rock, Alternative, and Classical (piano only)

*** Studio Equipment ***

I provide a comfortable, quiet room with live instruments, and playback and recording equipment. I expect students to bring a guitar, books, sheet music, picks, and a tuner.
Instruments:
1. Taylor Acoustic Guitar
--picks, tuner, and capo
2. Fender Stratocaster Electric Guitar
-- Marshall 100W Amplifier
-- Classic Cry Baby Wah Effects Pedal
3. Casio PX-310 Weighted 88-Key Piano Keyboard

Playback and Recording:
1. MacBook Pro OSX 10.10.3 13-inch screen
- Insignia 27W Speakers with subwoofer
- Garageband
2. Steinberg UR-22 Recording Interface
3. Audio-technica M30 Headphones
4. Sterling Audio ST51 Black Condenser Microphone

ers, a regimen of discipline and practice, an expectation I have of my students, and all the rewards that have lasted a lifetime. Properly taught music lessons are life lessons and are never a waste. I incorporate fun into the lessons as discipline and fun must be combined for success and enjoyment at all levels.

My teachers included Eleanor Sokoloff, Susan Starr, and Dale Clevenger.

I've taught for 29 years, and have a proven track record of success. I've taught at Universities including The University of Notre Dame, The University of Tennessee, The Chinese University and the Academy of Performing Arts in Hong Kong. I adore my students. Each one needs to be assessed and taught differently. Something you cannot learn in school, only through years of experience!

I teach in Avondale-Kennet Square-Chaddsford, Bryn Mawr-Villanova, PA, Hockessin-Wilmington,, DE, Newark, DE, and Cherry Hill, NJ with possibility of travel 10 minutes away. Please note: If you want in home piano lessons, you need a reasonably high quality instrument, and must maintain the tuning. I have perfect pitch and it will be crucial to me.

t they have experience playing with other musicians and other styles of music.