Lessons Offered
Piano, Ukulele
Where are Lessons Offered
In Teacher Studio
About Me
My name is Jean Sylwanowicz (Sil-van-o-vich) and I've taught piano for over 20 years. I'm a teacher, performer, accompanist. Music is my life. Jazz is my favorite music, and my idol is Dave Brubeck, but I also love classical music, pop, and just about anything that sounds good on the piano.
My home studio is located in scenic Mount Shasta, where students can see stunning views of Mount Shasta as they play. I have a grand piano for playing on.
Most recently, I've added ukulele as an option for learning. It's great for kids...teens love them....and adults - what can I say - it's a happy instrument that's easy to learn and fun to play.
Call me for rates and more information. Pictures to come soon.
My Musical Education Background
I started playing piano at the age of five, and haven't stopped. I took private classical lessons for twelve years and did some theory training in college. I've also been trained on jazz chording methods and improvisation.
During High School, I performed with the Jazz Band on piano, keyboard, and vibes.
My college degree is in Business Administration from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. I worked as a Marketing Manager in the High Tech industry for about 10 years, and then started teaching piano in 1991 in Colorado. I've been teaching in Northern California for the last 15 years. I currently live in Mount Shasta, CA.
I am a member of the Music Teachers National Association, and the California and local affiliates.
I've performed at church services, weddings, memorial services, benefit concerts, family reunions and more. I've also accompanied students for CMEA, and other competitions. Most recently I've performed with flutist Jeanie Locklear. We call ourselves "A Pair of Jeans."
My latest training has been on teaching ukulele methods with Gary Peare, a well known instructor from Lafayette, California. I've also studied with Gerry Grosz, legendary vibes performer.
Currently I am a piano accompanist at the College of the Siskiyous and also at Sisson Elementary School (Grades 5th - 8th).
Genres and Subjects Taught
Private Piano lessons - Classical training and technique, Jazz, Music Reading and Theory, Chording, Improvisation. All ages, all levels. I typcially start private beginner students at age seven.
Group lessons - I've taught at preschools and Gymboree as a music teacher - subjects include learning rhythm instruments, introduction to recorders and other instruments, singing and dancing, and introduction to different music styles.
Ukulele - Currently available to teach beginner private ukulele lessons. You or your child can play chords and melodies of traditional ukulele songs - Hawaiian, folk songs, and popular pieces in a very short period of time.
Lesson Rates
Please call me about rates. Piano rates are different from ukulele rates. Most lessons are 30 minutes long.
Ages / Skill Levels Taught
Most private students start at age 7, however, I will consider younger - afterall, I started at age 5....but that's only if you feel your child is really excited about music and can sit on a bench for 30 minutes (that's the toughest part...)
Otherwise, I teach all ages, all levels.
My Certifications and Awards
Music Teachers National Association
My Musical Influences
Dave Brubeck, Leonard Bernstein, Thelonious Monk, Scott Joplin
Beethoven, Chopin, Dvorak, DeBussy, Tchaikovsky
Beatles, Eddie Vedder, Chicago, Arcade Fire, etc.
Service Area
Student Reviews
Jeanie L
San Ramon, CA
"Gifted musicians will create with you..." I don't know who said this but Jean exemplifies this saying. It doesn't matter if she is making music with you or teaching music, Jean makes it a cooperative, fun and very productive process.
Claire, A
Danville, CA
I started taking piano lessons from Ms. Jean and stayed with her for 4 years. During her last summer here, she introduced me to the ukulele. I loved performing in her recitals.
Walter
Danville, CA
I took lessons from Jean, along with my two kids, ages 7 and 9. Within a few months I was performing jazz music in front of an audience...and playing duets with my kids. We all loved it, and were very sorry to see her leave town. Best wishes in Gazelle!