My approach |
About the studio |
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I believe students of all ages should be given the opportunity to experience the joy of learning and playing music, and to be engaged, challenged and motivated to want to keep learning and to reach their personal goals. I aim to shape my teaching style to reflect the individual needs, learning styles and goals of my students.
I am passionate about keeping fit and healthy, in body, mind and soul and I consider learning music and playing a musical instrument a very good fit. I strongly believe we must protect our bodies by way of correct posture while playing. To this end, I provide students with an adjustable bench, to facilitate being seated at the correct height, and also an adjustable pedal extender (or footrest) which is placed under the student's feet when necessary. About me I grew up in a very musical and talented family in Seaforth, NSW, where my siblings and I were taught piano, violin, guitar, flute and recorder. I have always had a great passion for music, in particular piano, and started lessons at age 7. I was taught by the highly accomplished concert pianist and teacher, Leila Chalmers, at the Chalmers, Langley and Bynon Music Studio in Darley Rd, Manly. From an early age I was involved in concerts and eisteddfods, and gained high achievements in AMEB piano and theory exams. I commenced teaching piano to younger children as a high school student, and later went on to gain my Bachelor of Education (Primary). I have over 30 years of successful teaching experience, both in schools and in private tuition. Certification: Current Working With Children Certificate National Police Check certificate Qualifications: Bachelor of Education (Primary) UWS Fully accredited by the NSW Music Teachers' Association as Private Music Teacher for Piano & Musicianship, Theory & Recorder Professional Memberships: Music Teachers' Association of NSW (full professional membership) Golden Key International Honour Society Australasian Piano Teachers Professional Piano Teachers |
Studio Policy
Please read the Studio Policy before starting classes with me. You will be required to agree to it. Studio Policy > Enrolment form Once we have arranged a class schedule, please complete this form and bring to your first class. Enrolment form > For younger students Parents of young children are particularly encouraged to attend their children's lessons. In this way you may understand my methods of teaching your child and follow up on the lesson at home in a similar manner. The building of self-esteem in the child is of utmost importance in the development of a well-rounded and confident musician and parents are encouraged to support this philosophy during practice time at home by limiting criticisms that are not constructive and by reinforcing through encouragement, positive behaviours and outcomes. Sometimes students, and especially teens interact more comfortably and freely without the presence of parents or other family members in the room. If I feel this is the case, I will discuss it with the parent. Recitals Studio concert recitals are held at least once a year, and participation is expected. If you don't wish to perform, your attendance at concerts as a member of the audience in support of your peers and the piano school is highly desirable. On occasions we hold our recitals at local nursing homes and retirement villages for the enjoyment of the residents, and I hope to be able to continue this gesture of goodwill to our older residents. Alternatively, we use the studio or hire a local hall. |