Musical Dictionary

Need some help with your theory book? Here's a Kids' Musical Dictionary to help you out!

Musical Dictionary

Adult Lessons?

Yes! I was recently approached about giving adult lessons. I would love to help you accomplish your goal of learning to play the piano for the first time, or to refresh your skills that you learned as a child. Let's get together and talk about your goals! The information is the same for adults as it is for children. If you would like a longer lesson, or to meet every other week, that can be arranged as well. 

Great Online Game Website!

This website has four games to help students practice the skills they've learned in piano lessons. Try them all!

Classics for Kids

Two Spots Open!

Thanks to everyone who has visited my blog as I take on a new teaching path. I've really enjoyed the lessons I've given so far this school year, and I am looking forward to working with more kids. Playing the piano can be so rewarding as an adult, and I am thankful for all of the lessons I had as a kid (even the ones when I DID NOT want to practice!) 

I am looking to fill two openings on Wednesday afternoons right after school (3:15 & 3:45). I still a few other times available as well. 

Call (515) 473-2737 for lesson information!

Lesson Information

What is my teaching philosophy? My goal for teaching piano lessons to children is to give them the basic understanding of music and have fun while learning to play the piano.   

How much time is involved in piano lessons? Each week we will have one 30 minute lesson in my Ankeny home. The student is expected to practice five nights a week on their assignment. There will be additional enrichment opportunities using technology at home, too, if desired.

What experience does Katie have? I taught four years of private piano and clarinet lessons before teaching 5th grade in Ankeny. I am now working part time at Waukee Wellness & Chiropractic with my husband, and staying home with my boys as much as possible!  I have a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education with a Mathematics Minor, but note that I do not have a music degree--just lots of music experience!

What experience does the teacher have in piano playing & with music? I have been playing piano since I was in Kindergarten. I took lessons through high school with various instructors in the Des Moines area. I took classical lessons through 10th grade, and jazz lessons during high school. I also play the clarinet and can sing a little bit! I was also the Field Coordinator for the UNI Marching Band in college.

Some of my favorite places I've performed at include State Legislator Breakfasts at the Capitol and for numerous events at UNI.

Do I have to buy all of my own music? Yes. I will buy it ahead of your lesson time so it is ready for you. Parents will be notified when there is a need for new books/music and will be expected to reimburse me at the next lesson. I don't select expensive or excessive amounts of music for children. Typically, students will have a lesson book and a theory book, as well as some longer pieces of music to work on when they are ready for that. 

Do you teach theory and technique or do children simply teach the playing of individual pieces in the absence of a musical framework? Teaching individual pieces may get quicker initial results, but there is then little or no learning to carry on to the next piece. In the moderately long run, a teacher who emphasizes fundamentals will give a better result. I teach both. It is also nice for students to have more musical background once they get into general music at school, band, or choir.  

What are all the fee requirements necessary to start a student with the teacher? Classes are currently $15/30 minutes. There is also an upfront cost of books to start the student. I offer a family discount for students who take back-to-back lessons.

Do I have to have a piano at home? Any other requirements? You must have an acoustic piano or an 88-key digital keyboard with weighted keys. Students will be playing a Clavinova during lessons with full keyboard & weighted keys. The child must also know how to read (usually around Kindergarten age is fine.)

Is the parent allowed or encouraged to attend lessons? Yes! We'd love for you to stay and listen to the lesson. However, if you'd like to run an errand during lessons, that is just fine, too! Please know that we have a large dog in the house. He will not be around during the lesson, but for allergy reasons, I'd like you to know.

ARE YOU READY TO BEGIN LESSONS? 

Call Katie at 473-2737!

(Questions taken from pianoeducation.org)