Candace W. Temple
About
I have taught piano for over 40 years and am professional organist as well. I hold a Bachelor of Music degree from Boston University School of Music and a Master of Arts in music from Tufts University.
I am completing a master's degree in English soon (for fun). I have taught children, teenage students, and adults. I'm thought of as kind and having a good sense of humor, and I'm sensitive to the particular musical interests of each student. I was a blues/jazz singer earlier in life, so I encourage students to improvise if they're interested in doing so.
Teaching Style
I gear my teaching to the individual student. While I am fully capable of following a set curriculum from some of the wonderful method books available, I want the student to enjoy their lessons, so I provide hand-chosen supplemental repertoire and teach music theory, including popular and blues pieces, if the student is interested. I want students to experience that reading music notation and improvisation are not either/or choices, so I teach both so that the student can read notes fluently and play by ear with confidence. As musicians, we can put on one hat or the other seamlessly and enjoyably. I am friendly and encouraging and always focus on each student's particular talents, because I believe that everyone should experience the joy of expressing themselves musically.
Curriculum
I have found that the Faber and Bastien series is especially organized, comprehensive, and fun. Each method has books for children and adults and has supplemental solo books. Younger students love to play Halloween solos as well as Holiday favorites where, often, a teacher part provides a great opportunity for duets. For students with experience reading music, I have learned along the way that it is very important that the student play something they like. Piano repertoire is so vast if there are always a myriad of choices for pieces. I have developed a suggested repertoire for Intermediate students.
Credentials & Affiliations
I have been a member of the Massachusetts Music Teachers' Association and have had students win first prize at their playing level.
I am also a member of the American Guild Of Organists and a professional organist.
I had the honor of being deemed the best student of my fantastic organ teacher at a Worcester Mass chapter of the American Guild Of Organists program.
