Piano Lessons

General Information / FAQs

Where and when are the lessons held?
I teach in my studio in Cupertino near Monta Vista High School; lessons are held Monday through Friday only.
What ages and levels do you teach?
I teach all levels, from beginner to advanced, starting at age 5 and continuing through adult. Beginners of any age are welcome. Beyond the 'traditional' ages for piano students (elementary through high school), I have worked with younger children, children with learning and behavioral issues, and adults of all levels. I will be happy to talk with you about the needs of your particular student!
What is your teaching and educational background?
I began teaching private and group piano lessons in Seattle in 1996 at my home and with the "Move Over Mozart" program. When I moved to California in 1998 I continued with a private studio and also as a faculty member of the Monterey Street Music Academy in Gilroy. I have a Bachelor's degree in Piano Performance and I am a Nationally Certified Teacher of Piano. I completed my Master's degree in Piano Pedagogy (from Notre Dame de Namur University) in May 2003. I am currently serving as Coordinator for District II (San Francisco Bay Area) of the California Association of Professional Music Teachers, and I am also a member of the Music Teacher's Association of California. I have had students participate successfully in the CAPMT Piano Auditions and MTAC Certificate of Merit and served as a judge for the CAPMT Student Evaluations in May 2007.
What is a Nationally Certified Teacher?
The Music Teacher's National Association (MTNA) has created a certification program to verify that certified teachers possess a common body of knowledge that will allow them to uphold the high standards of the Association. Certified teachers must provide letters of recommendation from established teachers, evidence of a bachelor's degree in music (or the equivalent, through history and theory tests and public performances), and written records of two years of teaching experience. They must then pass a rigorous written test which covers teaching skills, repertoire knowledge, and ideas on how to communicate and establish rapport with students.
What do you charge for lessons?
Lesson rates are $32.50 for a half hour and $60 for an hour lesson.
How much practice time is necessary?
The student should, ideally, practice for the length of his/her lesson; very young children or beginners should practice for 15-20 minutes. Practicing should consist of repeating each of the assigned pieces 3-5 times, with additional work on isolated trouble spots. Scales, theory assignments, and flash cards should also be part of daily practice.
Can I use a keyboard?
While it may be necessary due to financial constraints to use a keyboard, it is not recommended. Children, especially, need the finger strength and muscle development that only comes from playing an acoustic or digital piano with fully weighted keys. Pianos can be rented for a reasonable monthly rate from most of the local piano stores.
What else will I need?
Beginning students will benefit greatly from a set of basic flash cards, and more advanced students will be expected to practice with a metronome.
What if we are late or have to cancel a lesson?
If you are late to your lesson, the lesson will still end at the agreed-upon time, as there may be students after you who have a schedule to keep. Lessons that are cancelled without a 24-hour notice will not be made up, nor will a refund be offered.
How do we find the right books?
Books that I require will be purchased by me and sold to you to minimize confusion. Please feel free, however, to visit your local music store and look for your own particular interests! There are excellent books at many different levels for lovers of classical, folk and ethnic, Broadway, jazz and ragtime, Disney and movie scores, and New Age music.
Do you have student recitals?
There are two recitals a year, one in December, which consists primarily of holiday music, and one in May. Students will be encouraged but not expected to play.
How can I contact you?
E-mail me.