My studio
My studio is located in Ankeny, Iowa. I provide in-person lessons at student’s homes.
Lessons usually cover music theory, technique exercises and scales, grade level pieces and performance repertoire, rhythm training, sight reading, ear training and aural skills.
Students are expected to perform in two recitals every year around November and May. Students are also encouraged in taking Con Brio online exam and ABRSM online theory exams.
About Me
I studied piano, underwent years of rigorous training and examinations, and graduated under the ABRSM (Associated Board of Royal Schools of Music) system (which is based in UK). The system is very structured and comprehensive for skill development. Today, I continue to research and study methods and strategies to improve on playing and teaching. I also enjoy discovering dynamic and fun pieces to help build the students’ repertoire.
As I have developed bilateral hearing loss in the recent years, I am selective with taking in new students. I am happy to work with parents and students who are fully committed and cooperative, and those who are eager and willing to learn.
My Philosophy
I believe every child has the capability to play a musical instrument well. The keys to success are strong foundation, strong parental support and a good work and learning attitude. If you are a committed parent who plans to be involved in your child’s music education, I am the right teacher for you.
Different families have different needs, and different piano teachers have different goals. I am not interested in teaching every child. I will devote my time and energy to a student who is willing to learn. It is imperative to me that I am a good fit for you and your child, so that your child will excel. I am classically trained and I am focused on teaching techniques to produce a good tone and practice methods that prepares the player for advanced repertoire. I require students to have an adequate acoustic piano before starting lessons.
I also believe that the choice of your first music teacher determines what kind of pianist your child will become. Even a prodigy when exposed to poor teaching methods can limit his chances of being a professional pianist. Developing this strong musical foundation comes from doing it correctly right from the start. Since you are already making an investment, your child should be receiving a quality education.
Some of my transferred students had 2 to 5 years of lessons before coming to me. The problems I encountered include inability to read music or count, inability to recognize mistakes, poor sitting and hand postures, flat fingers, percussive playing etc. Because these students are diligent and practiced regularly, they have developed habits that would essentially take months or years to break, or very frequently deep set. Much of learning an instrument is based on establishing good habits, muscle memory and the training of the brain, the ear and motor skills. As similar to language learning, those who start their learning with poor pronunciation accuracy are less likely able to speak it fluently or master it. For these transferred students, the process of relearning takes patience and perseverance.
My mission as a piano teacher is to equip my students with a strong foundation, to help them develop essential skills and musicality so that they can progress to play the music they enjoy at an advanced level, as well as the ability to continue their musical journey with ease and confidence.