Piano with Lela G.

I currently teach lessons exclusively online using the online takelessons platform or Zoom. I do not travel for in home lessons. I am very passionate about music and believe it provides and assists with growth in many areas including: structure, motivation, creativity, communication, endurance, focus, happiness, well being, quality of life, and so much more! Learning an instrument is a priceless investment and is something that stays with you for life. My specialty service is a specific form of Music Therapy in which I use my training and experience as a music therapist, music teacher, and mental health counselor to focus on quality of life and wellness above all. In this approach you will be working towards musical goals by learning and improving on an instrument in addition to addressing emotional and even physical goals. Click the "subject" dropdown on the right side of my profile then select "Music Therapy" to learn more. QUALIFICATIONS: MUSIC AND EDUCATION: I am a board certified music therapist, certified play therapist, and mental health counselor. Music has always been a part of my life and teaching music is something I've consistently enjoyed throughout my career journey. I have been musically involved my whole life, gaining experience from many avenues including band, private lessons, choirs, performance, and musical gigs. I taught music theory and ear training at an after school music and arts business for 1.5 years and have been leading flute sectionals and teaching privately since 2015. In this time I've worked with a variety of students ranging from 4 to 60 years old. MUSIC THERAPY: As a music therapist I am required to be proficient on my main instrument (flute) plus on guitar and piano. I am also required as a music therapist and mental health counselor to be proficient in the creation and implementation of goals and objectives, people skills, and to have an empathetic, understanding, and positive approach in all I do. I believe these skills contribute greatly to the effectiveness of my teaching. I am also qualified and willing to teach adaptive lessons for students with all types of disabilities. This includes mental and physical. I have interest and experience in working with children and adults who experience chronic pain, parkinsons, autism, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, etc. I am open to teaching adaptive lessons but do also offer Music Therapy services to address specific challenges more in depth. Click the "subject" dropdown on the right side of my profile then select "Music Therapy" to learn more. MENTAL HEALTH: I currently hold my MA in Mental Health Counseling and have been a mental health counselor since January 2020. Prior to this I have worked in a variety of mental health settings including in home, in office, schools, and behavioral hospitals. TEACHING EXPERIENCE: I taught music theory for 1.5 years and have been teaching private music lessons since 2015. I have been a certified substitute teacher for elementary through high school and have taught flute sectionals at local middle schools and high schools. I have also been a teachers aide in two kindergarten classrooms. This job required me to teach students individually and in small groups. I also provided music groups with the kindergarteners once a week. Prior to this I was a regular dividend in a kindergarten classroom and have volunteered often in an elementary art classroom. TEACHING PHILOSOPHY: The fact that you can make beautiful music is less significant than the fact that music can make life beautiful. I strongly believe music is meant to improve your quality of life, not add more stress or another thing to check off your to do list. My teaching style is organized yet laid-back. I am flexible, open, and positive in my approach. I am understanding of busy schedules but do emphasize the importance of consistent weekly lessons if you decide to make the commitment. I have access to lesson books/textbooks and can make suggestions for you based on your needs and desires. If you are a beginning piano student you will need to purchase your own book. (It's about $6.00 on Amazon.) Our first lessons will be based around assessing your strengths and weaknesses. From there I will create a schedule customized to your specific needs. Your input is important to me as I am always willing to be flexible based on your personal needs and preferences. Learning music is FUN so I will make sure you are enjoying the lessons as well as getting the most out of them that you can! PRICING & SCHEDULING INFO: Flute, piano, guitar, and ukulele lessons are $25/30 minutes. Music Therapy sessions are $40/30 mins, $80/one hour. If you do not see a time on my schedule that works for you please let me know! I am willing to work around your schedule.