Patti C.

Hi! I am a classically trained pianist originally from Syracuse, NY. I graduated from Allegheny College in Meadville, PA where I studied piano under Professor Alec Chien. I also enjoyed playing the French horn and percussion with the Allegheny Wind Symphony and Wind Ensemble.

I have performed numerous piano solo recitals, as a featured pianist with the Allegheny Wind Ensemble, in piano duos, a piano quartet, small instrumental groups and in the pit orchestra for musical productions. I know the skills and technique needed to play as a soloist and in different types of groups. I am eager to share this with aspiring pianists.

I have 8+ years experience teaching private piano lessons and 3 years experience in teaching fun group EZ play organ classes to senior citizens. My senior year I was also a substitute teacher for beginning class piano at Allegheny College.

So whether you are looking to study as a serious pianist, just as a hobbyist or somewhere in between, I can guide and teach you along your journey.

I started piano lessons when I was 8 and music has been a part of who I am ever since. My goal as a teacher is to make a students' experience positive and rewarding. I have studied under 3 piano teachers in my life. Each teacher had a positive influence on me personally and musically. I strive to do the same for my students.

*** Lesson Details ***
I like to use the Bastien or Alfred piano methods. Students will be engaged and excited with the progress they make. For the younger students 5-7 I prefer the Bastien method which includes 2 books: lesson book and theory/technique book. For young students 8 and up the Bastien method includes 4 books: lesson, Theory, Technique and Performance/Solo. For adults I use the Alfred's Basic All-in-One Piano Course. Once students are ready I incorporate chord progressions, scales, sight reading and ear training into the lessons. Each lesson builds on the concepts and skills learned in prior lessons. I provide an opportunity for students to perform in a recital twice a year to show family and friends their progress.

I put great importance on proper technique right from the start. Poor technique can frustrate a student and therefore hinder their enjoyment and sense of accomplishment.

Lessons incorporate things that appeal to different learning styles. For example, a visual learner may really enjoy the flashcards to help learn the notes on the staff. For an audible learner they may look forward to hearing me play a new musical passage for him/her before talking about it. Finally, clapping a rhythm before playing it can really benefit the kinesthetic learner.


*** Specialties ***
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