PIANO LESSONS
I am delighted to begin offering in-person piano lessons for those in the Shamrock community and surrounding areas. These lessons are intended for anyone (children or adults) who would like to learn foundational piano skills and music theory. Students will learn to read sheet music, gain technical skills to build finger strength and coordination, and – of course – enjoy the beauty of playing piano music!
If you are interested in lessons, please see the contact form at the bottom of this page. Thank you and many blessings! – Catherine
Lesson Specifics
Lessons are 45 minutes each and will be held weekly beginning the week of August 18th. Being private, individual lessons, the pace and content can be tailored to the unique goals, capacities, and interests of each student.
Lessons will be held in my home in Shamrock. If you are located farther away (i.e. farther than Wheeler, McLean, Wellington, Erick, etc.)., please contact me directly so we can discuss any potential alternatives.
Pricing
My usual price for each lesson is $25 and can be paid either weekly or monthly. However, I understand that this is not feasible for all families, so please know that the price is flexible to allow everyone the opportunity to learn.
SCHEDULING
Lessons can be scheduled within the times listed below. If you have any questions or concerns, I’m happy to speak with you on an individual basis.
Monday: 2:00pm -7:00pm
Tuesday: 3:00pm – 5:30pm
Wednesday: 2:00pm – 7:00pm
Thursday: 3:00pm – 5:30pm
Friday: 3:00pm – 5:30pm
Saturday: 10:30pm – 3:00pm
about me
Though this is my first year teaching piano lessons, I have been playing the piano and receiving lessons since before I can remember. My piano and music theory knowledge comes from twelve years of private piano lessons as well as continued practice, playing, and composition work throughout my adult years. I have been the pianist at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church since 2023 and have released several albums of piano improvisations.
For me, music has always been a source of great wonder, joy, and gratitude for the many blessings I have received. It is my hope, therefore, to share the knowledge and skills I received as a young girl with those who desire to play music in their own unique and beautiful way.
If it’s of interest, you’re invited to view my music composition website, Enfolded Heart Music, by clicking here.
Click to view Youtube piano improvisation playlist
contact
If you are interested in lessons, please contact me either by completing this form or by calling me at
806-340-7706.
F.A.Q.
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically a child going into 1st or 2nd grade is a good age to begin, but of course, every child is different so some are ready earlier than others. Three primary questions to consider are:
1) What is my child’s attention span and how would he/she do in a 45 minute long session? Would they be fatigued and unable to learn well after 20 minutes, or would they continue to keep interest for the whole time ? 2) Can your child read at a basic level? While this is not necessary, it’s a helpful skill for teaching piano theory and music concepts. 3) How interested in your child in music? Do they enjoy playing with various instruments and, in various ways, show curiosity about music? A child who is not curious will have a particularly hard time staying focused and enjoying the lessons.
I also would be happy to speak with you about your child specifically to discern together if they are ready. It is also an option to have a mini lesson (free of charge) to see how they do and discuss from there.
A traditional upright piano or an electronic keyboard are both perfectly suitable for your student to use at home. However, they have different pros and cons to consider before purchasing an instrument. Here are a few things to consider:
Upright Piano: Used upright pianos are often on sale for free or at a very discounted price (see Facebook marketplace for example). The major challenge is moving the piano from one home to another. They are usually quite heavy and need to remain upright (do not lay on its side), so transportation with a trailer or truck is necessary. The primary cost of an upright piano is the need to have a piano tuner come and tune the strings. This often is around $150 per tuning and it’s recommended that your piano be tuned at least once a year. Obviously, the greatest benefit is that this is an actual piano rather than a mechanical simulation of a piano.
Electronic Keyboard: While an electronic keyboard is much more expensive than an upright piano, the cost of moving and maintenance is much lower and easier. If you’re considering this option, I would highly recommend getting a keyboard that is 1) at least 72 keys, though ideally 88 keys 2) has weighted keys 3) has hammer dynamics. Without these characteristics, the keyboard will feel very different than a piano and your child’s hands and fingers will not gain the same coordination, strength, and muscle memory that would be needed to play well on a piano. Finally, I would suggest eventually obtaining a sustain pedal if the keyboard does not come with it initially.