Kids Piano Lessons - Alexandria, VA and Online
*This page is for one-on-one lessons. For partner lessons click here.
Piano lessons should be both enjoyable and rewarding. My goal is to help students build strong musical skills while developing confidence, creativity, and a genuine enjoyment of music.
Every child learns differently, so lessons are tailored to the student's age, experience level, and personality. Whether a student is just beginning or already has some experience, I work to create a positive learning environment where they feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and celebrating their progress.
I believe that even challenging musical concepts can be taught in a way that is clear and approachable. Reading music, rhythm, technique, and music theory are introduced step by step so that students experience steady growth without becoming overwhelmed.
Above all, I want students to feel successful. By focusing on achievable goals and consistent progress, students develop both their musical abilities and the confidence that comes from mastering new skills over time.
More About Beginner/Intermediate Lessons
*To skip this section and read about lesson formats and rates, click here
For beginner students, needs can vary quite a bit. Some students have an easier time reading traditional notation, while others need to ease into it more. At this stage I aim to find the right approach that fits the student.
For example, if a student has trouble with traditional notation like this:
We might try a mix of -
1) Finger numbers corresponding to the piano key (in the below example, index finger is #2, middle finger #3, ring finger #4)
2) Note letter names written in the notehead (the circle/oval part of the note) without all of the long horizontal lines we see in traditional notation. (We also have numbers for the fingers here to help us out)
3) Note letters only written on a page: This would only be used for very familiar songs that the student has heard before. The letters tell them what notes to play (and they strengthen their ability to find the notes on the piano), but they don’t have to worry about counting to figure out the rhythm because they already know how the song goes.
For many students, as they become familiar with the piano using the above methods, I can slowly introduce them to traditional notation with simple pieces such as this:
Or this:
The idea here is that even if they are slowly incorporating traditional notation, they can learn their way around the piano and play some simple songs that are musically satisfying without having to decode so much up front.
While they are starting to read traditional notation, we can supplement with a game or two that will help them. One I really like to use for in person lessons is Note Rush.
In this game, notes come up on the screen, and the student plays them on the piano. It is also very customizable, so a student can only work on a couple notes at a time as needed:
(Different themes are available depending on the student’s interests, etc.)
For online students, I can screenshare notation software and in real time pull notes up on the screen.
Because I can move the notes around in various directions (such as in these 3 pictures) I can really help students see the logic behind how the notes work/relate with each other in a quick and visually appealing way.
I use the mouse to move it up one step to D
This note is Middle
C
I move it up another step to E
For students who have already studied for any amount of time, whether still in the beginner stages or more intermediate, I can assess what their needs are, and if necessary use some of the above methods I use for complete beginners to help strengthen any gaps in their musical foundation.
For example, some students might be able to play some fairly difficult pieces that they have spent many weeks memorizing, but they still have trouble reading certain basic notes and rhythms. In that case I would help them work through pieces at their level while also helping to strengthen their foundation in a clear and engaging way.
Lesson Formats & Rates
I'm currently offering both in person and online lessons (Zoom). All trial lessons are 50% off.
Most in-person lessons take place in my studio in the Kingstowne area of Alexandria, VA (near S. Van Dorn St. & Telegraph Rd.).
Limited daytime in-home lessons (Mon–Fri, 8am–3pm) are available in select nearby communities. Availability and any applicable travel fee depend on location and scheduling.
One-on-one lesson rates: In Person & Online
Monday-Thursday, 8am-3pm (EST/EDT)
$30 - 30 minutes
$45 - 45 minutes
$60 - 60 minutes
Monday-Thursday, 3pm-8pm & Friday 8am-12pm (EST/EDT)
$40 - 30 minutes
$60 - 45 minutes
$80 - 60 minutes
