Private studio

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I teach beginner and intermediate piano, using the Faber & Faber Piano Adventures series, primarily.  I am a third generation piano teacher, which means I have overheard and observed piano lessons for my entire life. It also means I have inherited many, many piano books over the years!  I pride myself on finding music that my students enjoy playing - ragtime, classical, holidays,  popular, etc..  I emphasize good note-reading and counting, and talk about chords, scales, and musical form at every lesson.  As a result, my students grow into great sight-readers who know a lot more about music theory than they realize!  

I teach violin at all levels, beginning with Essential Elements, Wohlfhart studies, and using Suzuki method books as additional performance material. In addition to note-reading, counting, and musicianship, I emphasize proper form as a beginner. As a result I find that my students are able to easily add new techniques (shifting, vibrato, spiccato, etc.) as they are ready for them. I like being able to both teach and accompany my students, so they learn performance skills as well as playing skills.

I enjoy working with trumpet players, and helping them extend their range and create a beautiful sound.  I generally help students with their current instruction in school, and work with them to achieve their playing goals.

I teach out of my home in Des Moines, Iowa, and anywhere in the world via virtual lessons! Contact me for availability.