Welcome
Methods Used: I use a variety of methods. For beginning students I use the Bastien series and the Piano Adventures series. For intermediate students I use the Celebration series. All students are taught scales and relaxation techniques. I also specialize in teaching hymn playing and improvisation.
Equipment Available: If you are located in Fairbanks, I teach on a brand-new Kawai upright piano. If you are located in Delta Junction, my instrument is a Yamaha grand piano.
Studio Locations: My Fairbanks location is off the Old Steese Highway about 10 minutes from Wal-Mart. If you are in Delta, my studio is located off the Tanana Loop Extension. Contact me for specific directions upon lesson appointment.
Teaching Philosophy
Each student has music within him that needs to be directed to reach his full potential. The untrained student is not aware of his abilities, and is not able to demonstrate his gifts. Through instruction, I will develop my students’ talents in a rewarding direction.
A student must know the techniques necessary to compose and interpret music. In order to compose music correctly, the student must have the basic tools to communicate his abilities. In order to interpret music correctly, the student must be able to identify the tools that another composer used. I will provide my students with the tools they need to both compose and interpret music accurately.
A student should be taught to be creative. He must explore musical possibilities that will lead to his better interpretation of music. I will guide my students into music exploration.
Each student will understand that music is a gift to be shared and is a benefit to both the performer and the audience. I will create opportunities for my students to share their music with others.
Through learning, and diligent practice, a student will acquire a strong work-ethic that will aid him regardless of what occupation he chooses in life. I believe that learning music is a skill that every individual should have, and it is my job to train well-rounded students.