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QUALITY PIANO, FLUTE, CLARINET

Kempsville
Virginia Beach, Va
23464
Get Directions

757-409-2564

QUALITYPIANO.WEEBLY.COM
pianoforte52@yahoo.com
 
In 1966 at age 13, I studied under Helen Kettner, a concert pianist attached to Elmhurst College, where I participated in many recitals, and I entered music contests in which I received all first places. This same year, I began teaching piano lessons out of my home. At 14, I studied under Donald Peck, first chair, flute, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, and under Donald Stroup, chairman, American Conservatory for Music Theory. I majored in performance in piano and music theory with a minor in flute. Also, I took classes to teach orchestra. I have a bachelor's degree in music. I have been teaching in the Tidewater area of Virginia since 1983. Throughout the years, I have served as a judge in various music contests, including the local Lions Club. I enjoy teaching all ages, from 4 to 80 years, and all levels of students, from Grades 1-8. With my encouragement and patience in a one-on-one private lesson based on the sound fundamentals from the Great Masters, anyone can learn to play an instrument. I include music theory, which is very important for the student's continued progress. Daily practice should be 30 minutes to an hour depending on age and skill level. I recommend piano to be the first instrument for all students. Students can participate in my two recitals held in December and June. I encourage participation in various contests throughout the Tidewater area. Past participants have won first place. Recitals and contests can build confidence. The public schools offer the "Reflections Contest," where students can compose music. Band or strings is offered for elementary students, and those students having private lessons do quite well, usually earning first chair. In sixth grade, my students audition for Kemps Landing Magnate School for Music. In eighth grade, my students audition for the Govenor's School for the Performing Arts, where they attend a half-day of high school and a half-day either at Old Dominion or Norfolk State universities, receiving college credit for various music classes. Former students have gone to Interlocken Music School in Michigan, the Boston Conservatory, New York University, Julliard and UCLA. Remember: No matter what your background or age, with patience and encouragement, anyone can learn to play music!

 
Reviews

5 out of 5 stars
By rick espinoza from Corinth, TX
Posted Oct 30, 2009
 

I also studied with Helen Kettner in 1970. I had just returned from army duty in Vietnam and she really helped me get back in shape with the piano. She was the best. I moved away from Illinois in 1978, involved in federal law enforcement since. Thanks to Helen's efforts, I am confident I am one of the best retired federal probation officer pianists in the country! (admittedly, the competition is not so great). Are you able to tell me if Ms, Kettner is still living and if so where? Any other pertinent information would be much appreciated. My e-mail is ricespi@aol.com and my home address is 1720 Timber Ridge Circle, Corinth, TX 76210. Your kindness is much appreciated. Also, your website is lovely. Regards, Rick Espinoza
 

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