Joyce Smith

Lessons Offered

Where are Lessons Offered

About Me

I have been teaching piano for 25 years to students ranging in age from six to sixty+. My training is classical, and I take a classical approach to teaching, but encourage my students to experiment with all types of music once they have a solid musical foundation. I use the Faber Piano Adventures series and the Alfred Premier series of lesson and theory books. Once a student reaches a certain level, I introduce technical exercises into the lesson plan.

Teaching Philosophy

My teaching philosophy is simple: I try to make it fun and rewarding to learn to play the piano, but at the same time I expect a student to have a sincere desire to learn and a commitment to regular practice. I am willing to work with anyone – no matter what their skill level or aptitude for the piano – as long as they are willing to try. Of the students I currently teach, several of them have been with me for three or more years, and I am happy to provide references from both current and former students on request.

 

My Musical Education Background

Music has always been an important part of my life. My father introduced me to the piano at a very early age, and one of my first memories is sitting on his lap at the piano while he made up silly songs that we sang together. He was a very fine amateur pianist and our house was always filled with classical music, as he was either playing it or listening to one of the many classical recordings in his record library.

My piano study began at the age of eight. After seven years of study, I gave up lessons for several years, although I continued to play for my own enjoyment. When I inherited my father’s baby grand, I was inspired to start lessons again and I have been studying with Jayne Kelly in Concord, NH for many years  She is a wonderful musician and is an inspiration to me both as a pianist and a teacher.
 

Genres and Subjects Taught

In addition to teaching my students to play the piano, I incorporate the study of musical theory, technique exercises, musical history, sight reading and ear training into my lessons when time permits.

Lesson Rates

I offer lessons in my comfortable studio on my Steinway baby grand, but I will also travel to students' homes within a 10-mile radius of my studio, when my schedule permits. Studio Rates: ½ hour lesson: $20.00; 45-minute lesson: $25.00;1-hour lesson: $30.00. In-home Rates: ½ hour lesson: $25.00; 45-minute lesson: $30.00; 1-hour lesson: $35.00.

Special Introductory Rate: I offer a 4-lesson introductory 1/2 hour lesson package to new students for a discounted rate of $60.00, plus the cost of books.

Ages / Skill Levels Taught

6 to ????

My Certifications and Awards

MTNA

My Musical Influences

My two most important musical influences would be my father, who taught me to love and appreciate classical music from a very early age, and my current teacher, Jayne Kelly. Jayne both inspires me with her playing and challenges me by presenting me with pieces to work on that hone my musicality and technical skills. 

Service Area

There are no reviews yet for this teacher. Be the first to review Joyce Smith