Piano with Mary O.

One of my earliest memories is of listening to my older sister practice her violin. My mom used to have her play for me when I cried. It always worked to help me feel better, and music has the same effect on me to this day! I remember wishing I was old enough to play myself, and I was very excited when I started playing the piano when I was still in Kindergarten. Along with taking orchestra classes in school and attending fine arts camp over the summers, I took private lessons throughout high school. I have had the pleasure of playing with several orchestras and symphonies, including the Anchorage Symphony Orchestra and the Tifereth Israel Community Orchestra in San Diego. Although most of my training has been in classical music, I have expanded my horizons to include Blues, Rock, Celtic, and Country music. I have had a wide variety of experiences on stage and in the studio, and I have had fun sharing my knowledge with students of all ages! *** Lesson Details *** For the past year I have had the pleasure of teaching private violin and music lessons with Take Lessons and at the Chula Vista Academy of Music. While enjoying the benefits of being a musician and private music teacher, I have also spent the last twenty years working as an elementary school teacher. I currently have a Special Education credential, and most of my experience has been with teaching students, with special needs, in small groups or on an individual basis. My classroom experience has taught me to be patient and to persevere. I have been successful at helping many students overcome challenges to meet their potential. My approach is positive in which I focus on student's strengths and give praise. The curriculum is simple and sequential so that students may build on prior skills. One of my greatest goals is that students feel successful every step of way! I believe my love of music is contagious. *** Studio Equipment *** one bedroom condo...big space in in dining room...keyboard, Yamaha...88 weighted keys *** Travel Equipment *** I would expect the student to provide an instrument, music, and a music stand. *** Specialties *** I was trained as a classical violinist, but I have experience with several types of music, including Blues, Rock 'n Roll, Irish, Country music.