I spent 10 years studying piano with a Suzuki teacher in my childhood, and the education that I received during that time has greatly informed the approach that I take with my students today. The founder of the Suzuki method, Dr. Shinichi Suzuki, believed that music should be learned in much the same way that language is learned. We do not read before we speak, and before we speak, we hear! With that in mind, one of the fundamental aspects of my teaching is listening. The more that students hear good music played with excellent artistry, the easier it will be for them to play good music with excellent artistry. I also believe that teaching students the correct technique involved in classical piano performance is essential from the very first lesson they take. We build on our technique and expand our repertoire over time, but we never move away from the foundations that classical technical training provides.

The method that I have found to be most effective at incorporating both listening and technique in every lesson right from the very start is called Piano Safari. You can read all about this method series by clicking here! The beauty of this method series is that in addition to providing excellent opportunities to listen and learn technique, the authors have created a musical experience that is downright fun and exciting!

I believe that following a well researched, thought out, tested and proven method series is the best way to ensure that students receive a complete and well rounded piano education. We can supplement lessons with materials that pique the interest of individual students, and there is always flexibility to modify each lesson to the specific learning style of individual students, but the core method and goals are the same for every single child that sits at my piano. My desire is that each one develops an innate musicality that enriches every performance, a dependable technique that makes even the hardest pieces approachable and playable, and a joy and passion for music that will provide comfort and peace through all the days of their lives!