Instruments
I teach piano, guitar and electric bass, as well as some drums, voice and ukulele. During lessons, my piano students learn on a Steinway grand piano, which allows them to hear the full sound of each note, and it helps them develop touch and responsiveness. It’s also more fun to play! For guitar, electric bass and drums, I have instruments for beginning students to try, and I can help you find a good starter instrument. In general, students will play their own instruments during lessons, with one of my amplifiers if applicable.
The Studio
I teach lessons in a comfortable studio in my Northeast Seattle home. The studio is a light filled basement level, with a waiting area where a parent or sibling can observe or do other work while they wait. There’s ample street parking.
Ups and Downs of Covid
The need for social distancing during the height of the pandemic has resulted in a diversification of how my students can take lessons. Many prefer in person lessons where we follow protocols laid out by the CDC which may include masking, distancing, and/or air purification. Students may sometimes opt for remote lessons in cases when interference arises due to travel, illness, quarantine, or as a precaution when community spread is high. There may be times when I recommend a remote lesson for added safety.
Many students prefer remote lessons, which occur via the platform of their choice (Zoom, Facetime, Skype), from the safety and comfort of their own homes. The commute time is unbeatable! These lessons require students to have a stationary camera, a microphone, and are most successful when the student can use a large screen rather than a cell phone. These things allow me to observe how they’re playing the instrument, provide feedback, and demonstrate new techniques.
At a glance
Most students take weekly lessons ranging from 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on
attention span and skill level. We’ll work on two or three songs at a time, and I host a Spring Concert recital, so that students can share their song(s) with a room full of supportive students, family members and friends. When these gatherings are not possible, home recitals offer a fun event for the whole family. Recitals are completely optional, but I recommend participation (especially for kids), as it really gives them a sense of accomplishment, and they’ve earned it! Performing in a recital is like finally getting to play in the sporting event you’ve been practicing for. Feel free to check the Recitals page.
What Happens Next?
If you think I might be a good match for you, send an email so we can discuss a time for a first lesson. If, after the first lesson I’m a good fit, we can plan for future lesson times.
If you’re a beginner, please bring a 3 ring binder and audio or video recorder to the first lesson. If you’ve been taking lessons or studying on your own, bring any books or music you’ve been working on so we can figure out what’s next for you.
If you’d like to book a remote lesson, please send me an e-mail through my contact page.
It's a Musical Life 