My Musical Journey

 

Classical music and playing the piano has always been a part of my life since I was a very young child. There was always classical music playing whenever we would visit my grandparents. Whether it was a family member playing the piano or listening to one of my grandfather's treasured collection of vinyl records comprised mostly of classical music.

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One of my fondest memories as a child was spending time after school and on weekends at my grandparents' house.  My grandfather was a talented musician and would immerse himself in the sounds of Strauss and Tchaikovsky waltzes and other classical music. It was his way of de-stressing. One of Schumann's best known pieces, Traumerei (which means "dreaming"), was one of his favorites. Although my grandfather played different musical instruments, it was playing the piano that brought him much joy.  At times when he would play the piano I would sit next to him, eagerly observing and imitating what he does. The beautiful sound of classical music that surrounded me, fascinated me and sparked my interest in music and the desire for piano lessons.

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My grandfather noticed the interest I had in music. At the age of seven, I inherited his piano. It was his desire for me to receive formal piano lessons at the Guam Academy of Music and Arts where I studied for five years.

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When I moved to California, I was able to work as a teacher's aide and also earned money after school tutoring reading to students. My passion for piano led me to use this money to pay for my private piano lessons.  The musical guidance of one of my early teachers, Leola Townsend, helped me advance in my studies.  Her high expectations challenged me. She equipped me with technical skills, and she taught me the sensitivity of touch and importance of tone quality for expressive playing.  Not only was she a talented pianist and quite the performer, but her passion for teaching and knowledge of the history of music I was learning paved the way for my discovering my true passion in life.

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In 1973 I auditioned for a major in music and was a recipient of a music scholarship at San Diego State University where I had the privilege of private piano instructions under Patrice Beale. This was another highlight in my music education because she studied under the internationally renowned pianist and teacher Mme. Rosina Lhevinne at the prestigious Julliard School of Music.

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During my high school and college years, my performance experiences included solo piano and playing in ensembles; accompanying school and church choirs; accompanying other instrumentalists and vocalists for adjudication purposes; and playing the piano and organ for weddings.

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My Passion and Mission

 

Teaching piano for over 25 years is a privilege that has given me the opportunity to share my love of music and playing the piano, and also to mentor students and build relationships over the course of their musical journey.

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My teaching philosophy focuses primarily on building and developing skills to create independent learners. I see my role as a piano teacher an important profession, not only in teaching music, but also in mentoring students with lifelong skills that extends beyond the music where one discovers a passion for learning something new. It is my hope to instill in them a love and appreciation for music while discovering their full potential. I customize the lessons to suit the different preferences and learning styles of the student, whether piano lessons are to fulfill extracurricular activities, participate in competitive events, or pursue a career in music. I respect each student's uniqueness and approach lessons with a lot of patience.  I find that by putting myself in the position of a learner helps me to relate and understand the difficulty one may be experiencing. All too often I'm faced with challenges.  As a teacher who cares, I embrace these challenges as I find myself learning alongside my students and seeking different approaches to helping they succeed. Although I've had several students who were winners in piano competitions, I am dedicated to teaching ALL students and in helping them to maximize their full potential.  Learning to play the piano matters not for the sake of competition but to explore and experience the journey and enjoy the benefits of music making for a lifetime. Investing time in my students and knowing that I have made a positive impact in their lives is by far the greatest reward. To provide my students with a positive learning experience, I continue to seek opportunities for professional growth by attending masterclasses, music teacher conventions, and webinars.

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About My Studio - Pianozart Music

 

It's been a blessing to have taught so many wonderful and dedicated students over the past years. Many of them began formal piano lessons under my guidance at a very young age and remained in my studio until it was time to pursue their college education.  Several of my students have received awards from piano competitions and were also featured in special performances. I'm proud to say some of these exceptionally remarkable students have graduated from prestigious universities such as Stanford, Brown, and UCLA to name a few.

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My professional affiliations and community involvements led me to co-founding the Temecula Valley Music Teachers Association in 1999 to promote the value of music study and music making in the community. I served as president for over ten years and have hosted performance opportunities for students of members and piano competitions in the Temecula Valley. I've also served as vice-president and treasurer for TVMTA for eight years. I am a member of the California Association of Professional Music Teachers and Music Teachers National Association and have in the past served as State Chair of Piano Auditions as well as the position of District Coordinator for Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

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Currently, I am a Center Representative of Academics/Theory Examinations in Temecula for the Royal Conservatory of Music Certificate Program (formerly, Carnegie Hall and Royal Conservatory Achievement Program) for which I am a founding teacher.

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