I specialize in shaping the piano lesson to the student, no matter the age or experience level. I have many games and tools to help music and piano become exciting and fun. I would love to work with you!
My first introduction to formal musical training was through the Musikgarten program, which taught me how music is put together, not just how to play the notes. I spent four years in Musikgarten under the tutelage of Nan Croney, after which I studied under Marie Webre and Anna Parsons for an additional eight years. I also took violin lessons under Diane Austin's mentorship for nine years. I have taught myself how to play the viola and organ proficiently and find opportunities to dabble with other instruments, such as the guitar and zither.
I'm the manager of the Northern Utah Youth Chamber Orchestra and Wind Ensemble, as well as the Assistant Manager and Music Librarian of the Northern Utah Youth Ensembles (and occasionally the dancing chicken at a concert). I provide the organ music in church each Sunday and enjoy sharing my talents and experience. The videos below are songs I've accompanied in church.
Music is meant to be enjoyed. Learning the notes is great, but there is so much else that makes music fun to learn and listen to!
As explained by Haim Ginott, a teacher and child psychologist, "It is the music teacher who holds the key to the child's continuous interest in music. ... The teacher's emotional tone has a stronger echo than that teacher's musical instrument." I never want to do or say anything to diminish the love a student has for the piano or music in general.
Here is a list of the benefits that come because I teach your child piano. These are not your average piano lessons!
Find a yearly calendar here.
While I don’t set strict practice requirements, I hope students enjoy their music enough to want to practice. If motivation is lacking, I reflect on how I can improve my teaching to better engage them.
Parents play an important role in supporting piano practice. Providing time in a child’s schedule, especially when they’re busy or distracted by other interests, is key. Encouragement, praise, and even a reward system can be very effective. I’m happy to support reward systems during lessons but they tend to work best when managed between parent and child.
If an assignment or activity becomes confusing during the week, please don’t wait—reach out! I’m available via text, phone, or the video app Marco Polo. I’d much rather help mid-week than have a student feel frustrated or stuck. Let’s work together to keep piano fun and rewarding!
Parents are welcome to attend lessons, whether in the teaching room or in the waiting room next to the teaching room.
I like to speak with each prospective student or family before enrollment to make sure lessons will be a good fit. Text or email me using the contact information at the bottom of this page.
Updated studio policies can be found here.
**Note: I do not teach piano lessons for men over age 18.
I strongly believe that musicians need to perform regularly to improve their skills. Recitals can be scary at first but get less intimidating with experience. There will be a recital in December and another in April, as well as a casual recital in August for summer students.
Students are encouraged to perform their pieces frequently for anyone who is available - grandparents, the mail man, or the dog!
Monthly tuition is due at the first lesson of each month. I accept cash, checks, and online bank bill pay. Venmo and similar services are not accepted. Lessons will not be taught until payment is received.
CURRENT STUDENTS
30 minute lessons: $60/month
NEW STUDENTS
Siblings/parents of current students: $60/month (30 minute lessons)
Completely new students: $80/month (30 minute lessons)
Asynchronous (occasional) lessons may be available upon request.