Sarah Gorham
Offering Piano Lessons for ages 7 to Adult in my Brainerd Studio
Experienced, Professional Teacher (patient and kind)
Frequently Asked Questions about Piano Lessons:
At what age should I start my child in lessons?
As a general rule, I recommend ages 7 or 8. I will sometimes accept younger students, ages 5 and 6, after consultation with the parents.
Do you have openings for new students now?
Please contact me for current schedules and I’ll be happy to let you know what I have available: 218 270 2621
How much do you charge for lessons?
I have three different options:
30-minute lessons: $70/month
45-minute lessons: $90/month
60-minute lessons (often shared by siblings): $130/month
We will usually have four lessons a month (weekly), but some months we may have three lessons and others may have five: the tuition is the same. As a general rule, I do not pro-rate months with three or fewer lessons, but I am happy to offer make-up dates for missed lessons. I am flexible with scheduling and will work with busy parents and tightly-scheduled students to find time for music lessons.
I appreciate payment on the first lesson of the month, cash or a check.
How many students do you have?
This number usually runs anywhere from 20 to 35.
Do you teach adults?
Yes. Any level or absolute beginners. Adults can be wonderful piano students!
Do you take transfer students?
Yes.
Do you use one method, or several methods?
I am partial to the Alfred series, and often use the Faber series also. If you have old books in your piano bench, or perhaps a relative passed-down some books, let’s take a look at them. They may be just fine, they may be out-of-date, or they may be a mess!
Do you take students to “piano contests”?
No.
Do you have a recital?
Yes; the recital is usually the 3rd Sunday in May.
Will you play at my cousin’s wedding/company Christmas party/ Aunt’s funeral, etc?
Possibly. I usually play a few gigs a year at various events. Please contact me and I’d be happy to discuss it: 218 270 2621.
Bio:
I have been playing the piano since 1966. I love to play the piano, and to work with others in their pursuit of piano-competency.
My life-long love of piano led me to begin teaching lessons in 1997. I have the good fortune to be “classically trained” and am happy to lead students through the works of my favorite composers: Mozart, JS Bach, Beethoven, Chopin and many others.
I also love show-tunes, as well as jazz standards, folk, blues and rock, etc. From Vivaldi to Duke Ellington to The Beatles: I love it all! If I can motivate a student with Taylor Swift, rather than Josef Haydn, I accept that enthusiastically.
I have worked as a professional accompanist at Central Lakes College since 2000. Working as accompanist to the college’s choirs keeps me versatile, flexible and familiar with current trends in academics.