Where do you teach?

I teach in my home in the northeast corner of Aurora, IL, near I-88 and Farnsworth Avenue.

Can we meet you to determine if you are the right teacher for us?

Absolutely. I recommend meeting for an interview during which we will discuss the student’s musical goals and experience. I will also assess the new student’s readiness or the continuing student’s level of playing. At the interview, I will discuss studio policies and answer any questions you might have.

What are the benefits of music study?

Playing the piano is fun! It can be a life-long pursuit. Learning to play an instrument develops eye-hand coordination. Research shows that students studying music improve their reading and math skills and earn higher standardized test scores. Learning piano will prepare a student for any other musical instrument.

How long should a student practice?

Most students should practice 30 minutes a day. New beginners may accomplish their assignments in 15 minutes a day. And more advanced students will need to practice 45 to 60 minutes a day. Each week students are given specific practice guidelines for their pieces, technique, and theory.

What method do you use?

For younger preschool beginners, I use a combination of Music for Little Mozarts and the Suzuki method. Using these methods together helps develop the young student’s ear, beginning music reading, and hand position.

For other beginners, I usually use Piano Adventures because of its sound pedagogy and fun music. However, the beauty of private piano lessons is that the program can be individualized for each student.

As students progress, I emphasize classical piano literature, but I encourage students to bring their own favorite popular music to lessons as well.

How do you handle billiing?

Lessons are paid for monthly. I issue a bill for at the beginning of each month that includes tuition, any music the students needs, and contest or recital fees. There is also a yearly fee of $5-10 for assignment books and photocopying.

What about missed lessons?

I realize life happens–illness strikes, family emergencies occur. Each student is allowed four make-up lessons during the school year. If more than four lessons are missed, they will be paid for, but not made up. Make-up lessons are usually given during the week of group lessons.

What are group lessons?

Four times a year students come together for group lessons instead of the usual private lesson. The groups are arranged by age and ability. During the group lesson students have a chance to perform their music in a comfortable setting. We also learn about music history and music theory through games and group activities.

Do you have recitals?

Every spring my students play in a recital for family and friends. The group lessons are essentially mini-recitals for their peers.

Do you teach adults?

I love to teach adult students. Adult students come with great enthusiasm for music-making. I tailor the lessons to the student’s musical goals. Once the basics are learned, we can concentrate on classical repertoire, popular music, hymns, or playing from lead sheets.