How do music lessons typically work?

Learning a musical instrument or learning to sing is similar to learning a foreign language in that it requires time and regular practice to become fluent.  Because of this, lessons need to occur regularly and piano students need either an acoustic piano or a full size keyboard with weighted keys at home.

Yamaha makes an excellent digital piano with a good track record for durability and customer service.  For a less expensive but not as durable option, there is the Williams brand.  Of course, an acoustic piano is usually better than a digital.

Vocal students would also benefit from a keyboard, weighted keys are optional.  A device for receiving MP3s through e-mail and playing them back is needed.

What makes you a good choice as a teacher?

My educational background is unique in that I have a B.S. in piano and a Ph.D. in psychology.  I have experience as an elementary school teacher, a college professor, a choir director, a private tutor, and as a piano teacher.  The common thread in all my teaching is the use of positive reinforcement to motivate and inspire my students.  My years of experience enable me to come up with creative ways to present material quickly, as needed.  My students typically sail through two levels of the piano method books per year, and I provide fun incentives for hard work.  

How much do you charge for lessons?

For the 2019-2020 academic year, my rates are $80 per month for a half-hour lesson, $115 per month for a 45 minute lesson, $150 for hour lessons.  I provide all books and materials, schedule 32 lessons during the year, and six make up days for missed lessons.

I am often asked if I offer a program of bi-monthly lessons instead of the regular schedule.  I do not offer this because I have found it not to be best for the student.  Regular repetition and contact with the instructor is needed for acceptable results.

Because most music lessons are private one-on-one tutorials, the cost is a bit higher for private music lessons than for some group activities where the instructor has many students at once. 

A thirty minute lessons works well for young beginners.  As students mature, more time is needed to teach theory, learn scales and technical exercises, and practice sight-reading.