Music Lessons

We're so glad you clicked/tapped the lessons button (or came here directly via search engine)! The section below will hopefully answer all your questions. QYSA = questions you should ask.

Music Lessons FAQ & QYSA

What instruments are taught?

We teach piano and organ as well as all woodwind and brass instruments. Violin, viola, cello and mandolin are also offered, as well as voice. We do not currently teach guitar, drums, double bass, or any other instrument not mentioned in the first two sentences of this paragraph.

What kind of students to you accept?

We accept students ages 7 to 170, but are only accepting intermediate or advanced students at this time. If you would really like your younger child or beginner to get into music lessons, we can recommend someone else for you.

Are lessons available online?

Yes, we offer online lessons but prefer in-person lessons as they are much more effective.

Lessons typically start at 30 minutes once a week at a specific time and day of the week. Most of the work of learning music is done at home, so we will not usually try to upsell longer lessons. More advanced students, however, may find it beneficial to have a 45 or 60-minute lesson on a case-by-case basis.

How long or often are lessons?

How much are lessons?

Lessons are $25 per half hour, $36 for 45 minutes, and $45 for an hour. There is no charge for cancelling lessons if reasonable notice is given. We accept cash, check, Paypal, Venmo, and Zelle.

What is your favorite ice cream?

Hands down, anything with both chocolate and peanut butter, although I do very much enjoy pistachio and pecan praline.

What are your qualifications and experience as a teacher?

In addition to a B.A. in Music Education and Music Composition, I have been teaching privately since 2010. That is <current year> - 2010 = years teaching. I also strive to improve as a teacher continually and am always finding new ways to make the practice of music more effective at home.

What is your teaching style and focus?

Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach a man how to fish and you feed him for a lifetime. This is the primary principle that guides my teaching philosophy. Focus is given on creating skills and habits that will enable students to have the tools they need to become lifelong and independent musicians. Students are taught how to practice and not just told to practice. Students are taught how and why music works, what to look for to make practice efficient, and why we do the things we do. In short, I am not a fun teacher, I am an effective teacher.

Please fill out the contact form and leave your phone number and email address and our expert scheduler person (the missus) will assist you with getting started.

This all sounds wonderful, how do I get started?

What should I bring to the first lesson?

What is the studio space like?

If you are an existing student elsewhere or are returning to music after a hiatus, please bring the most recent book(s) and/or repertoire you were most previously working on. You will also be asked to play a piece or two you already know well, as well as some sight-reading. Whether or not you are a new or existing student, please also bring a winning smile.

Our studio is located on our residential property, but is a separate building from the house, which once existed as a garage and workshop. Not including the hallway from the outside, the studio space is 500 square feet with ample seating for parents and other guests while they wait. Small toys and games are available for use by both adults and siblings or visiting friends. Free coffee and tea are also available if you feel so inclined.