mary_largeI love teaching, and have been offering piano lessons for over thirty years (and now I really feel old). Teaching piano is a privilege, and I believe it’s my calling.  I take the responsibility seriously, and teach full time from my studio at my North Naperville home. Each year my studio consits of between 30 and 40 students ranging from beginners to advanced level, my average student takes lessons for over 6 years and about 30% take lessons for over 10 years. Most students range in age from 7 years (2nd grade) through high school, and I have taught a number of adult students.

Education:

  • American Conservatory of Music, Chicago, IL.  Studied with Yasna Bjankini
  • Studied with Gladys Ives Brainard, Lawrence College, Appleton, WI (Ms. Brainard was a student of Joseph and Rosina Lhevinne and Wanda Landowska)
  • Continuing education include seminars and master classes through professional associations

I am a member of the Illinois State Music Teachers Association (ISMTA) Member, and the National Music Teachers Association (NMTA).

What are my goals as a piano instructor?

marystudent1To provide an environment where students cultivate an appreciation for piano music and develop their own skills to the best of their ability.  Rather than demand perfection, I desire to see progress, and I celebrate progress so students will be encouraged. Along with piano instruction, I teach students how to practice and help them prioritize so they can reach their own musical goals.

What makes me a good piano instructor?

  • I enjoy people of all ages, especially children.
  • I love music.  I enjoy listening as well as performing it.  I enjoy a variety of musical styles, and endeavor to expose students to those styles.
  • I have extensive experience as a piano teacher. Over 3o years and too many students to count!
  • My students usually continue studying with me for several years. (see above)
  • I enjoy learning new music myself, and expose myself regularly to new repertoire.
  • My students are equipped to use their music in their own experiences.  (accompanying, school programs, church, etc.)

Ready to take the next step? Review my piano lesson FAQs to get details. I accept new students throughout the school year. Learn about next steps.