My Teaching Philosophy
To put it simply, I love teaching! My philosophy as a teacher is to nurture the art of music by providing a well-rounded curriculum encompassing a broad range of musicianship skills. I believe that a high level of musicality is achieved by focusing on the process. This process-oriented approach helps the student to discover personal rewards in musical study, find enjoyment in music-making, feel confident of his/her ability to learn and to feel that the effort invested into piano studies is a worthwhile endeavor. The study of piano is a rewarding experience and is important for developing a student’s gifts/talents as a vital part of investing in their future.
My Teaching Style and Method
While this studio offers several performance opportunities, I teach with the intent that students will enjoy playing throughout their lifetime. Weekly piano lessons incorporate the learning of new material, sight-reading, musical statement and piano technique. Beginning to Intermediate students use the acclaimed Faber & Faber Piano Adventure series. Late-Intermediate to Advanced students are individually assessed in theory and technical skills. From this assessment, each student is provided with repertoire selected to build on their strengths and challenge their weaknesses. Repertoire ranges from the Baroque to Contemporary styles and is chosen by both the student and instructor.
Adult students will find the private lesson atmosphere to be non-intimidating and weekly material to be very accessible. Private piano lessons are a widening experience that increases personal awareness, happiness and fulfillment.
Lessons are also a great foundation for young minds. Learning to play the piano, and the self-discipline of practicing, is helpful in preparing for complex tasks in both work and life. Parents who wish to give their children the rewarding gift of piano lessons will discover them to be unique and tailored to each student. Each weekly lesson provides a comprehensive foundation of musicianship skills in a fun and engaging environment.
Adults (more information) Kids (more information)
Studio Features
- Lessons are held year-round
- Comprised of students ages four through adult
- Positive encouragement and incentives
- Seven themed recitals per year
- Composer Spotlight Recital - select students
- Arizona Study Program Recital - Arizona Study Program students
- Spring Recital - all students
- Summer All-Starz Recital - open to all students
- Fall Honors Recital - select students
- Winter Recital - all students
- Music at the Mall Event - open to all students
- Parents are welcome to observe lessons
- Waiting area for siblings and family
- Warm-up area for students
- Students have the option to participate in the Arizona Study Program
News!
2016-2017 Arizona Study Program Results are in!
Testimonials
"I want to thank you for the amazing growth our daughter has achieved. We are thrilled with her accomplishments in just a year with you. The best part is watching her enthusiasm in piano. Thanks again" -parent of student
"Dear Lesli, The recital this morning was incredible to say the least. All the students played beautifully! We can't say enough about it. It also speaks volumes about your teachings, your patience and your love for music. Our daughter is very fortunate to have you as her teacher. I have no words to tell you the gratitude we feel of your teaching, talent and your faith in your students." -parents of student
"Lesli, We finally got up to our cabin yesterday. I had to share her keyboard....she has all of these pencils/markers and pens on the side. I went to move them and she stopped me and said "This is how Mrs.Lesli's piano looks like and I am making my own school up here." She then played for hours! Thank you for inspiring..." -parent of student
"Dear Lesli, Thanks for a great recital on Friday. Everybody did really well. We really appreciate the hard work you put into the recitals and it obviously pays off. I am also very pleased with the fact that she has become very independent in practicing and learning the piano and rarely needs my help. Thank you again." -parent & student
"Hi Lesli! I have been meaning to email you for so long. I took a piano class here at BYU-Idaho and I have to thank you for being such an amazing teacher. I breezed through it so easily. Getting in practice time was super hard, but I made it through because of how hard you pushed me as a student. I really appreciate everything you have taught me! I really miss taking lessons from you!" -former student “You are such a great and talented teacher and woman.You have been so wonderful with my daughter which is why I'm taking lessons too.” -parent & student
"Again, what a gift of music you have given her. She truly is on the piano everyday, sometimes twice. I have always been able to recognize her playing when something is bothering her. Its been the tool in our home for me to know when something is wrong. Piano gives her that outlet for expression....happy or sad." - parent of student
"If I were not a physicist, I would probably be a musician. I often think in music. I live my daydreams in music. I see my life in terms of music. ... I get most joy in life out of music." ~Albert Einstein