Let me tell you about my history with piano...
I hated the piano.
Ouch. "That was blunt," you're thinking. But I did. Not only did my parents make me start piano lessons in second grade, they actually made me stick with the lessons. Five days a week I would practice, and the sixth day my wonderful, visionary, and dedicated (stubborn?) mom would take me to my lesson. Yes - I was forced to take piano lessons until well into High School, when I eventually admitted I was happy to continue. I also apologized to my poor parents for giving them so much grief about it over the years. Turns out, they knew how great it could be for me. Amazing! ;) In all seriousness, I thank my parents for their years of patience and knowing what was best for me. I am humbly grateful!
This newfound enchantment with the piano led me to use my skills to play for weddings and funerals, accompany the church choir and soloists, provide background music and programs for Christmas parties, play for community and church musicals, and yes, give piano lessons. During this time I began pursuing my bachelor's degree in Music and Religion from Grove City College, where I received professional instruction and accompanied many of my peers at an institution known for its rigorous academics. I graduated with the objective of giving lessons and serving at church as a musician. And happily, that's where life has taken me.
Long story short: I hated piano, and after a long shift in perspective, my parents' perseverance, and different instruction, I have learned to absolutely love it..
Now hear me correctly: my first piano teacher was a great musician and a very kind man. If I could speak with him today, we would get along wonderfully. I owe my quick sight-reading, strict rhythm, and precise tempo-keeping abilities to him. However, I wonder if he could have made piano lessons more fun for my difficult and skeptical seven-year-old self. I eventually learned to love playing piano from subsequent teachers. But it was a long road to get there. Wouldn't you agree that I would have learned much more if I had loved piano from the start?
Your story doesn't have to start out like mine. I can't wait to change the stigma that is sometimes found around the "dreaded piano lessons." In fact, one of my primary goals is that every student of mine will enjoy their lessons, if not love to play piano. It's important to me to mix in fun and personality with serious improvement and hard work at each lesson. And it will be my joy to see you smiling and satisfied with your progress!
-
My first performance in third grade at my school's talent show
-
My senior recital at Grove City College
