On the contrary, the biggest impact a very experienced teacher will have is on a "beginner". In the long-run, this kind of teacher is actually more economical. You'll develop a better foundation, more creativity, and the ability to become both musically independent and "your own teacher" as you take on bigger challenges. That teacher would be able to breakdown each area that you want to study, clearly and patiently, in an approach that is designed specifically for you. You'd get set-up physically at the piano so it feels very natural and efficient, and begin improvising early on. That teacher would also expose you to many artists who will inspire you and broaden your view of what you think is possible on the instrument.

This is a frequently heard lament from the Modern Urban Dweller. Dealing with scheduling should be a first-lesson topic for any adult piano student. Yet, very few people coming out of our educational system (or private instruction) are equipped to powerfully design, observe, and acknowledge their piano practicing over a sustained period of time. When you can take note of your practicing distractions, create an effective Pre-Practice Routine, and identify your Optimal Practice Times, your progress at the piano will immediately shift into the "fast lane".

• ALL LEVELS Taught
  • from beginners to pros
    
    
• ALL STYLES Covered
  • jazz / classical / Latin / blues / gospel / funk / pop / rock / 'new age' / free improvisation
    
    
• ALL SKILLS Enhanced
  • stress-free technique / improvisation / reading (note & chord notation) / theory / ear-training / songwriting

"Smolens is highly knowledgeable not only of jazz, but classical music,
and the music of many cultures, both instrumentally and vocally.
This, combined with his gifts of organization, focus,
and patience, make him an exceptional
teacher and educator..."

-- David Babich (clarinetist, vocalist, composer/arranger, recording artist)

 

"I always felt like I had learned something new with each lesson and was capable of learning even more -
he really nurtured the Spirit of the Student in me!..."

-- Dave Florey (pianist)