Marla - Teacher #4776

Instruments:
- Piano

Services:
- Music History
- Music Theory (Beginner-Intermediate)

Languages:
- English

Teaching Philosophy

I believe that a strong foundation in the fundamentals is key to musical enjoyment and growth. As a piano teacher, I am especially passionate about working with beginners, helping them build confidence, technique, and an understanding of music in a way that is both structured and engaging.

My approach focuses on developing proper technique, rhythm, and music reading skills from the very first lesson. I strive to create a learning environment that is patient, encouraging, and tailored to each student’s pace, ensuring that they not only develop essential skills but also cultivate a love for music. I incorporate a variety of teaching methods, including ear training, theory, and creative exercises, to make learning both comprehensive and enjoyable.

I understand that every student learns differently, so I adapt my lessons to fit their individual needs, whether they thrive with a methodical, step-by-step approach or respond best to interactive and hands-on learning. My goal is to inspire curiosity and confidence in my students, so they feel excited about their progress and motivated to continue their musical journey.

Above all, I want my students to experience the joy of playing the piano, knowing that the skills they develop—discipline, patience, and creativity—will benefit them far beyond their lessons.

Musical Education

I have been playing piano for nearly 40 years, beginning my formal training at the age of seven. I studied through the Royal Conservatory of Music, up to Grade 8 RCM, and completing all levels of theory, first-year harmony, and first-year music history. My training was rooted in classical techniques, emphasizing precision, musicality, and a deep understanding of theory and performance.

Throughout my years of study, I competed in numerous recitals, earning first and second-place awards in both solo and duet piano performances. My experience as a performer has given me valuable insight into technique, stage presence, and musical interpretation, all of which I incorporate into my teaching.

As an experienced piano instructor, I have taught private in-studio, in-home, and online lessons to students ranging from young beginners to adults. I have prepared students for recitals and performances, fostering their confidence and musical growth. My approach is tailored to each student's unique learning style, with a focus on both technical proficiency and artistic expression.

I am passionate about sharing my love for music and helping students develop their skills while building a lifelong appreciation for the piano.

Special Skills and Training

I spent a year teaching ESL to young children abroad. This experience has strengthened my ability to communicate clearly, break down complex concepts into simple steps, and keep students engaged through interactive learning. These skills directly enhance my approach to teaching beginner piano students. Working with young learners has taught me patience, adaptability, and the importance of structured, step-by-step instruction. I use clear language, visual cues, and creative methods—such as games and storytelling—to make learning both effective and enjoyable. Just as I helped ESL students build confidence in a new language, I now apply the same principles to guiding beginners in their musical journey, ensuring they develop a strong foundation while having fun along the way.

Rates

30 Minutes: $39.00
45 Minutes: $49.00
60 Minutes: $59.00

There is a one-time registration fee of 25 $ charged with the first lessons. All Taxes are included in prices, if applicable

NOTE: Your Credit card will be charged ONLY when the first lesson is set up and confirmed with the teacher

Policies


1. Cancellation Policy

Lessons not cancelled or rescheduled with at least 24 hours notice are billable to the client and payable to the teacher. This does not of course apply to travel fees unless the notice is effectively given at the door and the teacher has travelled to the location.

2. Cessation (quitting) Policy

A client must provide a 2 lesson notice period to stop lessons. So a weekly student needs to give 2 weeks of notice, a biweekly student works out to 3 weeks notice and a twice weekly student works out to a week of notice.

3. Illness Policy

Lessons cancelled due to illness or extraordinary circumstances with less than 24 hours notice remain billable to the client and payable to the teacher.

BAH teachers are encouraged to offer a make-up lesson at a future date in the interest of client relations and general goodwill. This only makes sense as teaching a student with the flu for example, will ruin the rest of your week's employment.

No more than 2 lessons may be made up due to illness within a 60 day period.

4. Rescheduling Policy

Any lesson can be cancelled or rescheduled with at least 24 hours notice.

Summer Vacation and Extended Absence Policy

Clients may schedule longer absences for trips etc. 24 hours notice is required.

It is normal and typical for students and about 20% of our teachers to schedule a break in the summer. We do not enforce a notice period (see cessation of lessons) at the end of a long summer break.

5. Evaluation Period

There are no free trial lessons with Beethoven at Home but we do offer a 2 lesson evaluation period where it is easy to try out a teacher. There are no free lessons during the evaluation period and clients may choose to discontinue the lessons at any time by providing the required 24 hours notice. After the student's 3rd lesson the required 2 lesson notice period will apply (see cessation of lessons above).

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