Piano with Denise R.

I've always had a love for music. When I was 8 years old, I taught myself how to read music before my first piano lesson because I was so excited to learn. I continued taking piano lessons throughout my school days and became involved in choir in high school. When I began college I decided to study business. I auditioned for choir and realized that my dream was to become a music educator. I graduated from Point Loma Nazarene University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music. I studied piano, voice, clarinet, and music education. I had a lot of experience playing the piano and singing that I decided to learn the clarinet and join the concert band so I could have band experience. I was also involved in hand bell choir and continued to perform with the choir after I graduated. After graduating, I taught piano at various private elementary schools throughout San Diego. I also had the wonderful experience of being the pianist and vocal soloist at my church. I was a substitute teacher for 8 years and had the opportunity to work with students from preschool to high school and was able to use my knowledge of each age group and school curriculum in teaching music. I had a great experience teaching music and movement for 3 years at a Montessori school from preschool to 3rd grade. Each age group had their own special qualities. Now I'm focusing my attention on private lessons teaching in person and online as well as my own professional development as a musician and an educator. "Great works are performed not by strength, but by perseverance" - Samuel Johnson *** Lesson Details *** Lessons are tailored to each individual student's needs. I think everyone is special and has their own unique way of learning and customized lessons should reflect that. I believe that music theory is important and I include that in lessons. For piano lessons I mainly use Alfred's piano books and Faber Piano Adventures. In each lesson I will demonstrate the necessary skills in order for the students to feel comfortable in taking the music home to practice. For voice lessons I include vocalizations, vocal technique, and song study. I want students to have fun with music. I am very patient and I think it's important to encourage and praise students. I hope to instill the desire to learn in each student. "The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." - Eleanor Roosevelt *** Studio Equipment *** Lessons in the living room, piano for piano lessons *** Travel Equipment *** I provide a portable keyboard.