One of the most difficult learning curves I experienced was trying to explore the jazz medium after only studying classical since I was very young. There was a lot of "undoing" that was necessary. But after hearing masters like Bill Evans, Monty Alexander and Gene Harris I knew this wondrous surface was worth scratching. That's about all I've managed in thirty years but what pleasure to meet and pick the brains of fabulous musicians. And over these years I've used my intuition and experience to guide students of all ages and levels on their chosen musical path. I decided long ago that If I was going to teach people, then playing by ear and understanding chord progressions and scales for improvisation purposes would be just as important to get across as learning to read music. If only I had such a balanced teaching when growing up! There is a tendency for people that only read music to become note bound and feel lost if they don't have music in front of them. I don't believe anyone is too old or too young to express themselves at the keyboard.
"Thank you so much Jan, for all you've done for me"...Josiah
"Thank you for being a great piano teacher"....Jasper
"Thank you for putting up with my funky weirdness and special requests. I also appreciate your patience and the sharing of your amazing talent."....Keaton
"I am actually considering taking piano lessons more seriously. During the years that you have taught me I went from impatient beginner to less impatient student. With the few years going by, I've moved up from C chord to B half diminished, and with the chords improving, so have my skills and attitude. I am just writing a great thank you for your patience, your lessons and your energy towards teaching me"....Alistair
"Thank you so much for continuing to allow Jessica to express herself so creatively and confidently. We always appreciate your patience and flexibility."....Jay
"It was such a pleasure making music with you. You are so FREE at the piano, and are able to communicate in way that touched and delighted me. Akiko commented afterwards on the special quality of your playing. You have the kind of freedom at the piano that most pianists crave. We both hope that you will share your gifts with piano students and especially with other piano teachers. We hope you will help them to create music and feel free at the piano. We sense that you would be a real gift in their lives. If we can help you in any way, please let us know." Forrest Kinney, co-author with his wife Akiko, of the music books, "Pattern Play".
