What to Expect

What will students learn?

Each lesson is crafted based on individual student goals, interests, and learning styles. Some of my students learn Beethoven Sonatas, some learn Jazz standards, some learn to improvise their own songs, and many learn a mix of everything. The primary goal is to give a student the skills and encouragement to progress while supporting their passion and feeding their specific interests. We grow knowledge of the instrument through games, improvisation, reading music, writing music, and learning music theory. I want to support children to grow into adults that love to sit down and play, and support adults to fulfill their lifelong dreams.

We learn to practice in ways that are both fun and helpful, finding the right practice tools to support each student. One of the biggest benefits of piano lessons, which helps kids and adults in all areas of life, is how to form practice habits that allow us to accomplish goals and enjoy the process.

What equipment do I need for online lessons?

Getting ready for online lessons is simple. You’ll need:

Device with a webcam (laptop, tablet, desktop, etc.)
Stable Internet connection
Piano or keyboard

How do online lessons work?

Online lessons work similarly to in-person lessons, with a few extra perks. We’ll meet over zoom for 30, 45, or 60 minutes at the same time each week. You just need one device with internet and a camera. It can be a laptop, desktop, tablet, webcam, etc… Set up your camera to the side of the piano with the student’s face and hands in view. This side view will allow me to communicate with the student and see their technique. Don’t worry, it’s not necessary for me to be able to see exactly which notes the student is playing as I’ll be able to recognize that by ear. You can set your device on a tripod, chair, table, or whatever works best for you.

The student will be able to see a few different things on their screen. You’ll always be able to see my face to communicate well. In addition, I switch between an overhead camera showing my hands on the keyboard, an image of all 88 keys that is connected to my piano and lights up the notes I’m playing, an image of a grand staff that shows the notes that I’m playing, and images of sheet music the student is learning. These tools allow me to cater to different learning styles, demonstrating anything the student may be working on in a variety of ways.

At what age can children start lessons?

I teach students as young as five. For young children, a parent may need to be present at the piano for online lessons. Each student is different and I work with families to find the right set-up.

Can adults take lessons?

Yes! I teach a range of adults from no experience to career musicians wanting to learn new skills.

How often do students need to practice? Practice expectations depend largely on a student’s age and goals. I start encouraging young students to practice around age 5 or 6. We begin by having them go to the piano several times a week for a few minutes to play around and make up notes to first establish the habit and excitement. We slowly add playing specific songs. By the time students are about age 8, they will go to the piano 4-6 times per week to both play around and practice specific homework on their own.

Practice expectations are always flexible around students’ lives and goals. I have many adult students who are very busy and not always able to practice. We structure learning around their lives, so that lesson can still be enjoyable and productive.