Joel Skinner

I have played and studied music my entire life. My father was a professional musician (piano, composition, directing ensembles, recording) and I learned to love music from the earliest age. 
I chose to study music at university and started with interests in classical piano, jazz piano, and vocal performance. I decided in favor of classical piano because of the outstanding piano professors, completing my degree in 2004. Since then I have continually played, performed, and recorded for various people and various styles including classical, jazz, gospel, pop, and sacred music. I also continue to arrange and direct vocal ensembles.

As a musician and teacher I value being a kind and positive influence as well as being thoughtful and organized. Teaching music is a blend of planning and being flexible, and I pride myself on both. Learning to play the piano is a long-term project and should be enjoyable! I teach in a positive way that brings new information and inspiration in each lesson. The key is the right amount of challenge to keep students learning while also staying encouraged and feeling successful.
 

All students are different and have unique goals and needs, so I like to teach according to what works best for each person. Some prefer workbooks and specific assignments, while others need room for flexibility and experimentation. It is helpful for everyone to learn some amount of music theory and sight reading as well as good technique, but I always emphasize training the ear since music is an auditory art form.

All lessons should include:
-review of what the student has been practicing
-instruction in new concepts and pieces

Lessons are designed around a student's specific goals and may include:
-learning correct technique
-fundamental music theory applicable to the current piece
-sight reading exercises
-ear training activities

I have experience teaching students from complete beginners through college, and from age 7 through 65. All ages are welcome and it's never too late to start!