How much do lessons cost?

  • One 30-minute lesson per week...$105/month.
  • One 45-minute lesson per week...$145/month.
  • One 60-minute lesson per week...$185/month.

 

Where do lessons take place?

I have a studio in Raleigh, near Crabtree Valley Mall. (Visit the studio website.) Alternatively, I can teach in your home.

 

What are your cancellation and payment policies?

You can read all the fine print here...

 

How do we begin?

Once you determine you're ready to begin lessons, we will set up an initial meeting. This meeting is free and allows you (and your child) to meet me and "try me out." After this conversation, we can all determine if we still wish to move forward. If so, we'll discuss schedules and determine a lesson time. In the first lesson, I'll give the student materials and a first assignment—and we've begun! If you are ready—or have questions—please contact me!

 

Do I need a piano? What about a keyboard?

Digital pianos have come a long way in the last few years. Right now, with a good sound system, the best digital pianos can actually sound like a recording of a real piano!

OK...so you already know my bias: I think there is no substitute for playing a real piano. Electronic simulations have improved tremendously. But they cannot simulate the complex interactions of felt, wood, and steel and the overlapping sounds and harmonics of a piano. Every serious student will need to have a real piano. Tone production, pedalling, legato touch, dynamics—these can be achieved only through working directly with a piano.

Yet I know that purchasing a piano is a major investment. And we don't always know if a beginning student warrants such an investment. Therefore I "allow" students to work on digital pianos. However I do require:
    • full-size, weighted keys (88 preferred, 76 required)
    • a sustain pedal
    • keyboard at a proper height with an appropriate dedicated bench
    • a sturdy, appropriate music stand—to read music while practicing
The goal however, is that if a student continues after 18-24 months, a piano will be the preferred instrument.

 

Do you teach adults?

Absolutely! Adults can find great satisfaction and enjoyment in studying music. Adults simply need to be consistent with regular daily practice.

 

What's the best age for my child to start?

I generally like to wait until a student turns age 6 or 7. Other teachers can make wonderful progress with young pre-schoolers. But I do best with slightly older children. Finger strength, physical coordination, and concentration span need enough development so that lessons and practice time are both fun and productive.