"The mediocre teacher tells, The good teacher explains, The superior teacher demonstrates, The great teacher inspire."
William Ward

Teacher

Some things to consider...

  • What are the certifications of the teacher?
  • Does he/she have a degree in music or education?
  • Is she able to teach all ages or/and all skill levels?
  • Are lessons private or group? Is my child getting dedicated time?
  • What opportunities does a good teacher offer for performance?
  • Does she teach music theory, technique, ear training, sight reading?
  • How long has she been teaching?
  • What musical organizations is he or she affiliated with?
  • Does her teaching style complement my child's temperament, disposition, and personality?

How to choose a piano teacher:

There is a broad range of pricing for local piano teachers. Remember, if you start your child off with a teacher just because the rates are extremely affordable, and later discover your child has great talent or wishes to continue lessons long-term, it will be difficult to un-learn any bad habits or techniques not built into the first valuable years of instruction. A properly qualified teacher will set the foundation for solid performance and developing that talent, even if your child is not going to continue as a professional musician. This does not mean the teacher with the highest rates is the most qualified. Ask questions, and don't blindly pick a teacher based on the cost of lessons. You may be surprised at how many of the most competent teachers also have competitive rates.

AMS Instructor Qualification:

  • Began playing piano at age 5
  • Enrolled in the gifted talent program as a child prodigy
  • Masters in Piano Performance at the School of Fine Arts, Boston University* (*Internationally recognized top ranking music program)
  • 20+ years teaching experience with students of all ages
  • Certified in the Yamaha lessons/methods
  • Member of the Music Teacher’s Association of California (MTAC)
  • Specialize in Certificate of Merit (CM)

Teaching Philosophy

What differentiates my piano instructions is that I have the demonstrated passion, talent, formal education, and long experience to help my students onto the right path. My goal is to develop a studio in which my students can learn to appreciate practice by enjoying the music they learn. With constant feedback from parents and students alike, make piano lessons less of a chore and more enjoyable so that students will want to practice because they truly enjoy learning new music, enjoy what they are working on and feel free to share their musical expression.