Phyllis Zuckerman, Piano Instructor

I have a lot of patience. To me, there’s no such thing as something someone can’t do. I will keep trying. This idea defines my approach to taking on a new student. I love teaching! I love to see the ‘a-ha’ moment from a student. The look of pride when they accomplish something is wonderful. 

Learning music expands a person’s horizons. Regardless of the instrument you will end up playing, starting with the piano is the best because you can learn the fundamentals. If you remember the Sound of Music, Julie Andrews and the children play and sing one of the most basic and memorable songs “Do-Re-Mi.” This song is used to teach the Von Trapp children the major scale. This is an example of how the piano can be tied in. It’s a very simple song to play on the piano – any child can learn it within their first few months of taking piano, and will remember it for the rest of their lives. 

What I find interesting is how many adults do better as students than children because they have come to lessons to learn for themselves. Kids are often doing it for their mom and dad. I understand this because I went through it myself. Then it started clicking for me and I started winning awards. After that, it became even more fun and fulfilling.