
Working with new clients


Introduction is very important for both myself & clients. This gives us the opportunity to meet, discuss any background experience, talk about goals, & discuss lesson plans. I have books & sheet music available for introductions, where I'll spend spends This allows me to get an idea of individual learning styles. I'm interested in the personal goals of each individual I work with, so I make it a point to find the music they enjoy listening to & desire learning in the future. We can then both come up with a more personalized lesson plan.
I discuss what is expected from the individual as a student (such as practice time & theory application) as well as what can be expected from me. I'm open to suggestions, personal preferences, opinions & all creative ideas, so that maximum potential is at every finger tip!
Let's take it from there & keep moving forward on your new journey!


Education & Training


I was a member, of the Youth Symphony of San Antonio, (1st violin, 4th chair), for 3 years from 1996 -1999. We rehearsed every Sunday all year round & gave concerts at U.T.S.A. & the Tobin Center. A rewarding experence, I enjoyed Chamber music, leading our string quartet as 1st chair while performing the Brandenburg Concerto. My time in YOSA added layers to my understanding of music!




... parting words ...



QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER BEFORE TALKING TO A PROFESSIONAL
Questions such as: what are your methods of teaching? Do you use books, method books, or hands on fingering first? Do you leave room for creativity, so the student does not get "stuck" in the confines of "by the book learning"....something to consider, even research! Very interesting..:) Ask about the use of scales, chords, arpeggios, method books, & sheet music. Will there be any fun pieces to focus on & hold their interest & keep learning exciting? What will the student learn? (take in) & what will they be able to produce or perform? & by when, how long will it take to pass certain musical milestones, or play a real song all the way through? Don't forget to consider the levels that songs are written in. Even famous classical pieces have a hard version, intermediate and beginner. Consider the level of the student always. Will there be recitals? A chance for students to perform for others and experience the sense of accomplishment that comes with that? Let the teacher know your goals. The goals of a student are important, and if you're a parent it is important that you communicate what your goal as the parent is for the student if he/she is a child. It is important that a child student have the desire to learn and play piano. If goals between parents and young students are the same, results will be smoother due to good communication. Everyone should really be on the same page as far as these goals are concerned. Do you want a more structured style of learning, with emphasis in theory & rhythm, directed toward performing & competition? Or do you prefer the student to play for fun & keep up what they've already learned? Both enjoying the musical experience of course. Here are Just some ideas to go over ... Write them down if you need.
ADVICE FOR THOSE LOOKING TO HIRE A PIANO TEACHER
Let the student get to know the teacher & vice versa. The teacher needs to know the goals of the student, whether it is to be a concert pianist, play a personal favorite, such as a Taylor Swift song, or Mozart, or do they wish to perform duets or other pieces for fun. As for the parent & student, make sure to communicate with your teacher so they can do whatever it takes to help the student enjoy what they are doing. If the student is a younger child, the parent needs to encourage practice, because without practice, progress is very limited. If you are the student, you will get out if it what you put into it ;) Another thing I've learned is if someone doesn't want to learn & is forced to take lessons, that can be difficult as well, because the truth is, an individual will only enjoy it if they like what they are doing. Now that's not to say if given a chance, they may be surprised to find they actually love it. That, I think I'm learning about too. Feel comfortable with your teacher. Communication is important.