Lessons
Private one-on-one instruction for piano or harp
Congratulations on your first step into the world of creating music!
I have been teaching piano and harp since 2002 to students of all ages and a wide range of levels.
My mission as a piano teacher and harp teacher is to provide a well-rounded and balanced music education. I strive for my students to learn the theory and history behind the music, to be good readers of the notes on the page as well as being good listeners, and to be challenged while still keeping enthusiasm for learning alive.
I teach beginning through advanced levels, and a variety of different musical styles that are tailored to the individual student's interests and personal goals.
What makes my studio special?
  • Students learn not just piano skills, but also some history and theory behind the music that they are playing
  • Students learn to be strong music readers as well as using listening skills, so they can become more independent musicians moving forward into the future
  • Students are introduced to new styles of music, as well as finding their favorite songs to incorporate into their music education
  • I make use of technology to provide additional learning opportunities, such as music notereading apps, online learning aids, and online lessons via Zoom, FaceTime, or Skype.
Recital, December 2017
Recital, December 2018
Zoom piano lesson, 2021
New music day, 2014
First lesson day! 2019
with piano education guru Randall Faber at a teacher workshop, August 2017

Virtual or in-person lessons

Virtual Lessons
I also offer music lessons with Zoom or FaceTime, so you can take lessons with me from any location!
  • For people who live outside of the Bay Area.
  • Easier to fit lessons into a busy schedule, because you can have lessons from home and at odd times.
  • Great option for makeup lessons or if you are not feeling well.
  • Saves on gas, no driving involved!

If you have not tried virtual lessons before, I encourage you to give it a try. You may be surprised how well it might work out for you.

How do I get started?

How do I get started?

New students may enroll at any time during the year, and monthly tuition will be prorated to reflect the number of lessons the student will receive in that first month of lessons.

  • For young children, enrollment will be considered after a FREE personal mini-lesson with the student to assess the child’s readiness for piano lessons, and meeting with the parents to chat about piano lesson expectations.
  • For adults, it's never too late to start! Try a FREE introductory lesson and see what it's all about.
What kind of piano or harp do I need?

All students need an instrument at home for daily practice.

  • For piano, either an acoustic piano or a digital piano (preferably not a keyboard).
  • For harp, either a lever harp or pedal harp is suitable.

A digital piano is acceptable if it meets the following requirements:

  • 88 keys (77 keys minimum)
  • Touch sensitive
  • Weighted keys
  • Sustain/damper pedal
  • Bench of an appropriate height
  • Either self-contained or on a keyboard stand (not a table or desk)

If you want help purchasing or renting an appropriate digital piano or harp, I will be glad to provide links to a variety of suitable options.

Who can enroll in music lessons?

Students in kindergarten and above may enroll in piano lessons, depending on their readiness. We can assess whether a young child is ready during our first meeting.

How much practice time do I need?
Practice makes progress! A regular time should be set aside for practice to become a regular habit. Consistent practice sessions will reinforce music concepts learned during the lesson, and will ensure more consistent overall progress.

I always encourage quality practice over quantity, and practice instructions will be given in each lesson to help each student make the smartest use of their practice time. I definitely don't recommend trying to cram a week's worth of practice the day before the lesson; this is usually frustrating and discouraging for the student.

These general time recommendations will help students achieve more consistent progress. You should plan on practicing at least 5 days a week.

  • 5-7 years old: 15-25 minutes
  • 8-10 years old: 25-35 minutes
  • 11-14 years old: 35-45 minutes
  • 15 and older: 45-60 minutes
What is the cost?

Private lessons are held one-on-one, once per week.

If you have circumstances that make a weekly lesson difficult (either because of scheduling or finances), we can discuss a-la-carte lesson options.

Lessons can be 20-minute (for very young children), 30-minute, 45-minute, or 1 hour lengths. Lesson length depends on age, attention span, and level. I can help you decide which is best.

Tuition is due at the beginning of each month. Tuition payment is accepted with cash, check, or Venmo.
  • 20-minute lesson: $35
  • 30-minute lesson: $45
  • 45-minute lesson: $65
  • 60-minute lesson: $85
I do offer a discount for families with two or more children who wish to take lessons, please contact me for details.