Teresa Arth

 I started  formal lessons on piano at age 7 and always took a dedicated and passionate course in everything to do with music. I studied with the same teacher through my school years and then decided I wanted to try lessons with another instructor. This instructor challenged me in my classical repertoire. I also participated in chorus and concert and marching band through this time. I also started performing at church in my Parrish at age 12 and started teaching at age 16. 

I  attended  Southern Illinois University Edwardsville , and studied with Professor Emeritus Ruth Slenczynska, who was an artist in residence at my university

where I graduated with a BA Piano Performance and have taught lessons continuously and performed weekly  both informal and formal events. 

I have taught hundreds of people to play and have had several students go on to study music in college. 

I think the success of my students is a reflection of the knowledge and substance I have gained through my life's music experiences and my ability to explain concepts in several different ways with wit and fun analogies. 

 I run a small music studio in Southern Missouri and work with a local band/choir director. We share the same vision in wanting to pass our music skills onto the next generation. Using a modern teaching approach by incorporating group band sessions along with one to one lessons. But traditional and classical lessons are still the favorite. 

I am  so thrilled that you are considering music lessons!

This may well be the key to years of pleasure and accomplishment for you as you open the door to the universal language of music! In order to ensure that you or your child get the most effective and creative teaching possible; your lessons will be constructed with a simple to follow format. This will enable the student to follow through when practicing and be able to advance quickly. 

I am  all about developing a new generation of music-minded students who get to balance education with all the fun and awesomeness of being in a great jam session alone or with others. 

I have an enthusiasm for music that is infectious. I teach with humor and analogies. I use all the experiences  and techniques to implement a personalized program  for my students. From beginner to master studies, I believe the transfer of musical knowledge is a profound  commitment that will help my students in the true enjoyment of their instrument and a hobby to last a lifetime . I can hear someone play and watch their fingers and prescribe the correct routine and pieces to help them progress quickly. 

• ONE-TO-ONE LESSONS are offered in 30, 45,  60 minute increments. These lessons are  personalized in nature and the teacher will arrange a variety of skills in their lesson plan with the student. These are not always done at every lesson according to what time allows.  If you are interested in taking advantage of all the skills I can help you with then we can alternate playing with doing activities such as games, listening, music appreciation, music theory, composition, improvisation, and ear training.
• From beginner to master studies, I believe the transfer of musical knowledge is a profound  commitment that will help my students in the true enjoyment of their instrument and a hobby to last a lifetime . I can hear someone play and watch their fingers and prescribe the correct routine and pieces to help them progress quickly.

The Teacher

• Strives to make music lessons seriously fun.
• Encourages excellence in practice and skill development through positive reinforcement and best-teaching practices.
• Ensures each lesson is an educational experience.
• Continues professional and musical development.
• Determines (with student) the music to learn
• Helps student prepare for recitals, festivals and other performances.
• Provides user names and access to online resources, Apps, and game

The Student

• Chooses to make the study of music a priority.
• Maintains a positive attitude.
• Is willing to experience different genres of music.
• Practices, as instructed during home rehearsals in student assignment book.

The Parent/Adult Student

• Supports daily practice and student progress with encouragement.
• Practices with the student (if necessary).
• Reads, and understands studio policies, emails, announcements and procedures and acknowledges this information.
• Monitors student’s progress.