Meet Your
Piano Teacher
I was born in Toronto, Ontario. Music became my life at the age of six. My childhood years were filled with the intense study of piano and theory under the direction of many different teachers in Ontario and Alberta, Canada, and in Florida, U.S.A., through the Royal Conservatory of Music.
My career in music includes composing, performing and teaching music for over 43 years.
My portfolio consists of classical, pop and electronic works. These compositions have frequently been presented in a wide range of live venues. Through my composition and performance I strive to stimulate the minds and hearts of students, performers and audiences.
Piano Lessons
In Person - Virtual
My Piano Teaching Style
My main goal as a piano teacher for children is to create a nurturing and engaging environment where the love for learning the piano can flourish. I believe that cultivating a passion for music involves more than just teaching notes and rhythms – it's about building a strong connection with each student and tailoring lessons to their individual needs and interests.
First and foremost, I strive to establish a warm and friendly rapport with my young students. I want them to feel comfortable and excited to come to their piano lessons. By creating a welcoming atmosphere, I help them develop a positive attitude towards learning, making it an enjoyable experience rather than a chore.
I understand that every child is unique, with their own strengths, challenges, and preferences.
To foster the love of learning piano:
- I personalize my teaching approach. I take the time to get to know each student's musical tastes, hobbies, and goals. This information allows me to select music that resonates with them, making the learning process more relatable and engaging. Whether a student is a fan of classical compositions or modern pop songs, incorporating their favorite pieces into the lessons helps keep their enthusiasm alive.
- I also use creative and interactive teaching methods. I believe that learning should be fun and interactive, especially for children. I incorporate games, musical puzzles, and interactive apps into the lessons to keep their curiosity piqued. These activities not only make learning enjoyable but also enhance their understanding of musical concepts in an exciting way.
- I encourage active participation and creativity during lessons. I ask my students to share their thoughts, ideas, and even compose their own simple tunes. This fosters a sense of ownership and pride in their musical journey, which contributes to the growth of their love for playing the piano.
Regular encouragement and positive reinforcement play a vital role in nurturing the love for learning. I celebrate each milestone and improvement, no matter how small, to boost their confidence and self-esteem. This instills a sense of accomplishment and motivates them to keep exploring and progressing.
As a piano teacher for children, I also emphasize the importance of patience and perseverance. Learning to play the piano is a journey that requires dedication and practice. I help my students set achievable goals and guide them through the process of breaking down challenges into manageable steps. This instills a sense of accomplishment and empowers them to overcome obstacles, further deepening their passion for the instrument.
Lastly, I promote a supportive and inclusive learning environment. I organize recitals, group activities, and musical projects that allow my students to showcase their progress and connect with their peers. This sense of community fosters a deeper appreciation for music and encourages them to continue learning and growing.
In essence, my approach as a piano teacher for children revolves around building a strong connection, personalizing lessons, fostering creativity, providing positive reinforcement, promoting patience, and creating a sense of community. By incorporating these principles, I aim to ignite and nurture the love of learning piano in each and every student, guiding them towards a fulfilling and lifelong musical journey.
Locations
SW CALGARY
COCHRANE
VIRTUAL
The Power of Music
The piano's magic isn't just for certain ages – it touches everyone, from kids to grown-ups. This special instrument can do amazing things for our minds and hearts. When young people start learning the piano, they step into a world full of musical surprises. Their fingers dancing on the keys make their brains light up, helping them remember things better and think harder. Learning to read music and play songs teaches them to be patient and keep trying, even when it feels tough. Exploring different tunes and sounds helps them hear things in a super cool way. The piano also lets them share their feelings by turning them into beautiful notes. When they master a tough song, it's like a big win that makes them feel proud and confident.
But guess what? Grown-ups can also enjoy the piano's magic! Even if you're not a kid anymore, you can still learn new stuff. Playing the piano gives your brain a good workout, like doing exercises for your mind. It helps you remember things and think better. When you play the piano, it's like telling a story with music. And when life feels stressful or hard, the piano can be like a friend that calms you down and makes you feel better. It's a break from phones and computers, a chance to use your hands to create something beautiful. Plus, getting better at the piano teaches you to keep going even when things are tough – that's a super important skill.
No matter how old you are, piano lessons aren't just about making music. They help you connect with history and different cultures. You can learn about famous composers and the different kinds of music they made. The piano helps you feel what they felt, and it makes you understand different emotions and stories. Making music on the piano is like using your imagination to create something totally new.
To sum it up, the power of piano lessons is like a magical force that makes life better for everyone, whether you're young or grown-up. Learning the piano is like growing a garden in your mind and heart. It makes you smarter, helps you share your feelings, and lets you be creative. The piano is like a friend that's always there for you, making you feel proud and happy. So, let your fingers play those keys and see how the piano's power can light up your life!
~Music gives the heart wings to fly ~