Lessons Offered
Piano, Music
Where are Lessons Offered
In Teacher Studio
About Me
Hi and welcome! Thanks for checking me out. I believe that my responsibility as a teacher is to make it as enjoyable as possible and yet provide a proper true foundation as to truly to be able to reach one's potential. I am patient and very flexible. I really love teaching and welcome the opportunity to get to know you and hopefully make some great music together.
ps (You may search Gary Schmidt piano lessons Loveland for my personal web site if you prefer. There are videos and recordings there).
I have two degrees in piano and many years of experience. (I have also played guitar since a teen and quite competent to teach). As a pianist I have performed in Canada, the U.S. part of Europe, and most recently in Mexico. However my home base is here in Colorado and I truly do enjoy teaching at all ages and abilities from true beginners (a real joy) all the way to advanced.
I also have a great number of adult students whom I also really very much enjoy!
I have a very well equipped studio in my home (complete with a Steinway grand piano). It is very centrally located with easy access and plenty of parking in a quiet residential area. If the distance is not too great I am also open to coming to your home is that makes things more convenient.
My first lesson is always free and includes a consultation as I know it is an important decision. It gives us a time to get to know one another with no pressure and talk a bit about goals etc.
Look forward to hearing from you!
Gary
My Musical Education Background
Royal Conservatory of music, Toronto, Ontario (piano)
Tyndale College, Toronto, Bachelor Sacred Music, Choral Conducting, piano major, and piano instruction.
Genres and Subjects Taught
I enjoy teaching all ages and levels from beginners to advanced preparation for college entrance requirements. Though my main training is in classical piano I also very much value and can teach pop music and playing by ear. I think it makes one a balanced musician!.
I think one of the greatest honors is to be someone's first teacher. I do my best to have fun, create a love for music, but also of course give first rate instruction. Know that it will be a balanced approach encompassing a breadth of music education including technique, music theory etc. There will also be opportunities for performance and evaluation but never under any pressure.
I also enjoy teaching adults. I recognize that adults learn very differently from children and their motivations are very different as well. I hear from so many adults that they took lessons as a child but for whatever reason gave it up. Now they wish they hadn't or simply want to give it another try. Or maybe this is your first try. Welcome!
I know that most likely you are taking lessons just for fun and enjoyment. I am very flexible and can teach by note/chord or note, or probably a combination of the two.
Bonus: Did you that many studies show that learning a musical instrument is one of the very best ways to reduce stress and also prevent memory loss!
Genres,
Can teach classical, popular, playing by ear, chording, music theory,
Note can also play for weddings, banquets, fund raisers and other special events.
Again welcome and I look forward to hearing from you!
Gary
Lesson Rates
My rates are very competitive. I offer various times and packages based both on the needs of the students. I always offer a free lesson and consultation to ensure that everyone is very comfortable and under no pressure.
Ages / Skill Levels Taught
Adults - Beginners or experienced
Children- Beginner or experience
Will prepare students for entrance into college.
My Certifications and Awards
Recently won album of the year award in Europe for my latest CD of original piano music recording by Grammy awarding found of Windham Hill records, Will Ackerman.
Music degree, Royal Conservatory of Music (Toronto) - piano performance.
Bachelor's of Music in piano performance - Tyndale College (Toronto)
Prize winner at the Jeunesse Musicals competition Quebec, Canada
Second place in a national song writing comchers Association.petition (over 800 submissions)
My Musical Influences
My mom loved classical music and it was her collection of records that instilled in me a great love for the music.
As for particular people, Rubinstein and Van Cliburn were my favorite pianists but many different artists of different styles have been a big part in shaping my musical self.
Service Area
Student Reviews
Peter
Fort Collins, CO
I have studied with Gary for over a year now and have been very pleased with his teaching style. He has helped me develop sound technique as well as better musicianship, and I feel I have made real progress in my playing. He is a very encouraging and kind teacher, and my lesson is a high point of my week. I recommend him highly.
John G
Loveland, CO
Great Teacher
Susan
Loveland, CO
After many years of "plunking" at a piano, I finally decided to take lessons so that I could actually begin playing the piano for my own enjoyment. Taking lessons have not only helped me to practice on a regular basis, but has given me confidence that I can actually do this - I can play the piano! Gary not only shows me correct technique but his encouragement keeps me from giving up even when I feel progress is slow. Piano lessons are a gift I have given to myself.
Nancy
Loveland, CT
“As an adult with a passion for playing the piano, I have studied with many teachers over the years. None have inspired me more than Gary Schmidt. A gifted professional musician, Gary is a gifted teacher as well. Intuitive to the needs of the individual student, he has taught me to unlock a sense of artistic expression which has boosted my confidence as an amateur and greatly enhanced my love of music. Gary is patient, relaxed, and makes learning fun which is why I would recommend him as a great teacher for even the youngest of students.” ---Nancy, retired nurse