Styles I teach

I currently coach/teach piano and chamber music in the western classical music tradition. I have a particular affinity for Bach, Bartok, Beethoven, Debussy, Haydn, Mendelssohn, Mozart, and Schubert. I also love exploring the work of living composers and lesser-known composers of the 20th century, including Amy Beach, Charles Griffes, and Carlos Guastavino.

I am especially interested in and adept at breaking down technical issues and solving challenges related to tension in the hands and arms, and the overall physical approach to the instrument.

My Commitment to the Student

I give my complete attention and care to each student during their lesson, and will try to impart as much of my knowledge as I can.

I will also remain available outside of lessons for questions that may arise during the week - I tell my students all the time:  I would much rather spend a few minutes answering an e-mail than they spend a week practicing something incorrectly! 

My teaching philosophy centers around teaching the student to not need me. That is to say, I teach how to analyze, interpret, and solve problems, rather than simply how to play a song or piece. While maybe not good for business, I feel that this kind of approach, teaching pattern recognition and analysis, will serve the student well no matter where their life leads them.

Pricing

  • Recommended for students up to age 8

    $60

  • Recommended for students ages 8 and up.

    $80

  • Recommended for students age 12 and up, and all advanced or adult students.

    $100

  • Students and families on a monthly plan will receive a 5% discount.

  • Most students and/or families prefer to pay quarterly. This is my preference as well, since we can focus all of our attention on the lessons and less on billing logistics.

    Students and families on a quarterly plan will receive a 10% discount.

  • If you are local to the College park, Hyattsville, or Riverdale areas, I may be able to offer lessons in your home.

    This will increase the above rates and depends on your distance from my home.

Ages I teach

In general, I am currently only accepting adult students due to constraints on my schedule during weekday afternoons and evenings. However, I am open to working with children in certain cases if the logistical stars align.

For instance, if you are local to the College park, Hyattsville, or Riverdale area in particular, we may be able to work something out for your child.

Every student is different so I do not have a specific minimum age, but do have some guiding principals to determine if a student is ready for lessons.

  • A prospective student must be able to pay attention for at least thirty minutes

  • They should be able to listen without interrupting, and follow instructions.

  • They should be able to read at a basic level.

Expectations for Students and Families

Taking Piano lessons is not a once-per-week outing. I require my students to commit to a lifestyle of daily practice (within reason of course!).

Formal lessons are frequently the quickest path to learning an instrument but they alone are not enough to make meaningful progress. It is up to the student to reinforce what they have learned in lessons through individual practice.

I cannot stress enough how important it is to have support, empathy, patience, and encouragement from family members - this helps immeasurably.

Other Policies

  • I am fully vaccinated against Covid-19 and require my students to be as well. I do not require masks during lessons but will happily wear one at a student/parent's request.

  • Payment is due by end-of-day of the lesson if on a pay-per-lesson plan.

    If you are paying by the month or semester, payment is due by end-of-day of the first lesson of the set.

  • Misc