What ages and levels do you teach?

I teach students age 5 years (if they are ready) up to adult years.  I especially enjoy being a musical mentor throughout a child's formative years through high school graduation and feel privileged to be a part of their lives longer than most educators can!  I teach early beginner up to advanced levels.

What kind of piano should I have?

While an acoustic piano is generally the best instrument, digital pianos are a good fit for many families.  Here are the basics that I recommend for a digital piano:

1) An 88-key keyboard (this is the same number of keys as a full-size traditional piano).  However, a shorter keyboard will work for a year or two if you're just trying out the piano.  

2) A keyboard with weighted/touch-sensitive keys. Right from the start we will learn about playing loudly and softly and it can be frustrating for students who have to turn a knob to get the desired effect.  Along those same lines, I recommend an electronic keyboard with a medium or heavy touch so there is some resistance when pressed down. This will allow the piano player to control the sound better.

3) A keyboard with a sustain (damper) pedal either attached to the base or able to be plugged in as needed.  If the keyboard doesn’t come with a pedal, make sure it has a 1⁄4” jack to attach a separately purchased sustain pedal.

4) A keyboard stand if the keyboard is not attached to a base. 

5) Recommended, but not necessary: an adjustable bench.  You could get by with a bench or stool and a bunch of books.  Basically, when the player sits on the bench or chair and places their hands on the piano, the forearm should be parallel to the floor.

How do I know if my student is ready to start learning to play the piano?

Students are most successful at starting piano lessons when they can sit still and focus for a few minutes, they know their right from their left hands, they know the alphabet, they can write their names, and they enjoy music (singing, drumming, dancing, imaginative play to music).

What books should I purchase for my student to use in your studio?

I like to involve your student in several fun evaluative lessons before deciding upon which books to use.  Everyone learns differently, so your child and I will take a few weeks to do some rhythm activities, learning games and improvisation to determine the best pathway forward.

What if I plan to leave for a few months during a sports season or vacation and then come back?  Can I restart piano lessons?

My studio has a waiting list, and I cannot hold any slots unless a family would like to pay during their absence. 

If your studio is full, where can I find another good piano teacher?

I have several recommendations for colleagues in Omaha who are excellent teachers, so please reach out and ask!  One of the best ways to find a good teacher is to visit https://omahamusicteachers.org/ and click on 'Find a Teacher.'  Most of the teachers listed on the website have years of experience running their own private studios.