As a young child, I knew I loved music. I was fortunate to have my parents who supported and encouraged me with a variety of music lessons. It is my personal joy and a privilege to pass my love of music to the next generation of musicians.
Taking private lessons is a unique environment as it fosters a customized approach to learning. Both the instructor and the student work together to create a better understanding of the instrument and achieve a higher level of appreciation. .
I would love to share my passion and joy of music with anyone who wants to discover their own journey into the musical world.
I have worked with student's from the age of five through adulthood. I enjoy working with any age group. As a teacher, I am always looking for new ideas to aid in a student's musical journey.
I teach to the student's "learning style." I use whatever resources are available to reinforce musical concepts. I am patient, and laid back. I want my students to feel comfortable, and know that they can be themselves when they are working with me. Most of all what a student can expect is a teacher who is interested in them, their progress, and making the our time together as enjoyable as possible. I believe that I help students see the joy music brings to their lives.
I have always felt that one of my greatest strengthens is my ability to interact with children and adults, and I hope that I can continue to share my love of music in the coming years.
Experience
During high school I participated in A Cappella Choir, and joined a global performing group, called "Up With People" that traveled locally and statewide. I was active in high school music productions and I studied privately voice and piano.
Since then, I have continued to sing with community based choral groups throughout the Washington, DC region. I have also assisted as an piano accompanist for a small local church.
Education
I graduated from George Mason University, with a Bachelors degree in Liberal Arts. While attending the University, I sang with the university choir and studied classical piano under the tutelage of Jacequeline Schmitt. I was because of her that I developed an interest in piano technique.
During and after college I studied with a private voice instructor from Catholic University, where I learned classical voice.
I am currently working with a Takelessons teacher to maintain my skill.
I am also currently working on being certified as a Music Color teacher through an online course written by Andrew Ingkavet. I also received training and certification as a Music for Young Children, a program designed for early keyboard beginners.
I have continued to broaden my personal education by taking online courses, such as reharmonization of chords. I have also attended workshops, sponsored by the Piedmont music club, on how to incorporate improvisation into my lesson plans.
Lesson Details
I use a variety of methods for teaching piano. I do not restrain my approach to one method, but draw on resources from other methods and approaches.
I include music theory, ear training and piano technique into the lesson. While I am a classically trained pianist, I do not stick to that style of music. I believe that exposing the student to all types or styles of music broadens their education.
I use the computer and any apps that are available to further my students skills on the keyboard.
Within six months I would hope that the student would feel more comfortable at the piano. I would expect him to learn posture at the piano, including hand position. I would expect that his knowledge of the right and left hand notes would become more proficient, and that he would understand what the staff is. I would expect that he understands keyboard geography, distance between notes, the concept of high/low, dynamics, and patterns (both directional and melodic). I would add two-handed playing, at a very basic level. This, of course, would depend upon the student's pace and how much effort is put into the learning of the instrument.
My goal is to create a fun and lively learning environments, that with patience, will result in a life long love of music and the personal benefits it imparts.
Studio Equipment
lessons in dedicated music room in basement; computer with electronic piano and keyboard;
I worked at a local music studio using the training I received from the Music for Young Children company, based in Canada. I worked with a small group of 4-5 year old and their parents. We taught the rudiments of piano and theory using a creative, age appropriate approach to music.
Received a four year degree that was composed of the principles of archaeology and preservation of the material past
Since its founding in 1898, the NFMC has grown into one of the world’s largest music organizations with club and individual members of all ages. The NFMC is chartered by the Congress of the United States, and is the only music organization member of the United Nations. NFMC provides opportunities for musical study, performance and appreciation to more than 200,000 senior, student and junior members in 6,500 music-related clubs and organizations nationwide. Members are professional and amateur musicians, vocalists, composers, dancers, performing artists, arts and music educators, music students, generous music patrons and benefactors, and music lovers of all ages.
Founded in 1907, NAfME is among the world’s largest arts education organizations. NAfME advocates at the local, state, and national levels; provides resources for teachers, parents, and administrators; hosts professional development events; and offers a variety of opportunities for students and teachers.
