René's Drum Studio

Yes, I am a drummer/percussionist, but I also play and teach piano and have done so professionally for over 25+ years.  See my music resume on my bio page for a history of my work with other piano lesson companies and experience.  I have been very fortunate to have studied with some of the best teachers in Portland/Milwaukie:  Lee Fricke (Lewis & Clark College Piano master), Arlene Zeller (a very popular piano teacher in Milwaukie), Mike Horsfall, an advanced teacher/performer whose specialty is jazz, just to name a few.  I still take lessons.  I pass along my knowledge to my students.  A true pianist and musician is NEVER done learning.  

Piano teachers are a "dime-a-dozen".  HOWEVER, a good instructor knows how to work with kids, has a music degree, experience performing and recording in different settings, and a track record with a strong referral list.  I have all of those credentials and I'm not shy about mentioning it. I have also taught preschool music classes at Sellwood Bilingual Preschool (puppets, rhythm training with percussion, sing-a-long songs and movement etc).  As a mother of a 10-year old, I truly enjoy working with kids of all ages and adults. I have had several background checks in N. Clackamas, Portland, and Beaverton School Districts due to my drum line and teaching master classes in percussion during the past 25 years.  I also play professionally in musicals around the PDX area.  Usually it is as a percussionist/drummer, but occasionally I get handed keyboard or mallet parts.  This is where theory and piano experience comes in.    

Here at my drum AND piano Studio, a strong student/teacher relationship is essential and key to student success. Lessons are structured but fun.  There are two piano recitals a year and I can help your student, age 6 on up (younger by evaluation only) learn not only the mechanics of how to play the piano, but a love of music in all it's forms.  I provide the following:

*  Piano Basics (I Use Alfred's Method Books and supplemental handouts).

*  Music Theory

*  Ear-Training

*  Classical, Popular:  Beginning through Upper Intermediate and beginning Jazz Introduction

*  Reading Music and overall Musicianship

*  How to be a professional and recording tips

The setting is in my English Tudor in Milwaukie.  A park-like setting surrounds the home and a beautiful black Kohler & Campbell 5'3" baby grand is the perfect instrument to learn on.  See the rates page for lesson rates.  Family discounts apply.  If you refer a student and they take lessons, you get a free lesson!

CALL NOW TO SCHEDULE YOUR LESSONS.  Times vary.  

Best,

Rene'