The study of music enhances a student's education in many ways, including literacy skills, verbal memory, and spatial reasoning, to name just a few. Playing an instrument utilizes and strengthens the senses of vision, hearing, and touch, along with coordinating fine movements.

Private lessons are beneficial for numerous reasons:

• One-on-one attention, providing a sense of individuality for the student
• The ability to move at the student's own pace, as quickly or as slowly as need be
• Instant feedback, including corrections and advice as well as praise and encouragement
• Accountability, as the student is actively engaged and learning to take responsibility for individual practice and progress towards a goal

I enjoy teaching students from elementary school age up through adults. At beginning lessons, we focus on the fundamentals of playing the instrument and learning where the notes are on the musical staff and on the instrument. These fundamentals are beneficial in developing coordination, as well as fostering concentration and determination.

As students continue in their training and their confidence increases, we tackle increasingly challenging songs and music theory concepts. Our conversations may range from how music and math are intertwined to looking up an Italian musical term we are unfamiliar with. In this way, students’ minds are opened to new ideas, helping them to become well-rounded individuals.

Students are expected to practice at home in between lessons; we can discuss an appropriate amount of practice time based on the student's age and other factors.

Payment is due on the day of the lesson or ahead of time. Please give a 24-hour notice if the student will be unable to attend the lesson, otherwise payment will be requested, except in extreme circumstances.

Students are given the opportunity to perform in a recital each Spring. Periodically, performances are scheduled at a local nursing facility as well. In addition to helping choose and refine their pieces, students learn proper performance etiquette as we prepare for the recital.