Dave’s Teaching Philosophy

Dave focuses on a classical repertoire, building technique with scales, technical studies (e.g. Hanon, Czerny, etc.), and longer pieces.  Music theory is woven into weekly lessons and monthly studio classes.  Students with an interest in non-classical repertoire, such as ragtime, are encouraged to pursue that as well.  Many students have advanced to playing original concerti by Mozart, Beethoven and Haydn at the annual recital and have joined high school jazz groups.

Dave believes that success in piano involves the student, the parent/guardian, and the teacher.  Without parent support and direction, a young student can flounder. Dave believes in a rigorous approach to piano studies — scales, music theory, exercises, and serious practice — but also has a good rapport with students and maintains an ongoing interest in their lives outside of piano studies.  He believes that “talent” in playing the piano is earned, through discipline and hard work.