Lesson Contents:

I realize that people take piano lessons for different reasons. Because of this, I strive to work with the students to meet their goals while keeping in line with my goals as a teacher and still giving the parents what they expect as well.

• I am a Classically-trained pianist and will always push to include at least one piece of Classical repertoire in the lesson material.
• Singing is a must.  Well, it doesn't necessary have to be singing, but speaking various things aloud, such as fingering or counting, is mandatory.
• Sight-reading is emphasized.  Good sight-reading skills are so vital for a pianist.
• I love music theory and music history; they are a staple in the lesson material. I find that knowledge on these two subjects enhances students’ ability to learn music better and more musically.  Ear-training is also included in lessons.
• I get many requests that students learn to play the hymns of their religious denomination. That is a great! I try to teach these in a similar way in which they will be asked to use this talent, which means hymns are often used as sight-reading material in the lesson.
• Many students come to me with specific songs they would like to learn. Bring it on! That is why they want to learn to play the piano, right!
• I like to include composing. Composing can be fun and is great for making sure students really understand a concept.
• And, finally, with the increased interest in Jazz and Christian Rock, I have started studying how to play this type of music as well. I am a beginner in this area, but am more than willing to share what I have learned with students if that is something they are interested in.

Methods Used:

Beginners:

• My favorites: Alfred’s Premier Piano Method (pub. by Alfred) and Piano Adventures (pub. by Faber)
• Others I like: Alfred’s Basic Piano (pub. by Alfred) and Celebrate Piano! (pub. by Frederick Harris)
• I am familiar with a lot of different methods and am usually willing to work out of methods transfer students have already started, but I will try to persuade you to use one of my favorites after they finish the current level they are working in.

Intermediate:

• I usually stick with the method books until around Level 4 (depending on the method), and from there I switch to early intermediate repertoire.
• Developing Artist Piano Literature (Faber), Succeeding with the Masters (FJH), Essential Keyboard Repertoire (Alfred)
• There are many more I have used and am willing to use.

Advanced:

• Any repertoire by the classic composers.