MY TEACHING PHILOSOPHY
For me, teaching is a passion; I live and breathe it. Since 1972, I’ve provided Los Angeles, Cleveland and Houston students with private classical piano lessons. I teach each child with an organized, nurturing but challenging approach. I love teaching people who are eager to expand their minds, talents, and skills, and bring a depth of professional expertise to those who strive to excel.
CLASSICAL MUSIC is the core of my curriculum as all music can be understood through its study. The curriculum is designed to encourage sound musicianship and beautiful piano playing. To these ends, students are immersed in the following concepts:
THEORY - A significant part of each lesson is devoted to understanding and reinforcing basic concepts regarding scales, chords, and musical symbols. Age-appropriate games and enrichment activities are used.
RHYTHM - As possibly the single most important aspect of music, students are steeped in motor activities from the beginning lessons to encourage the sense of a strong beat, the ability to imitate a rhythm pattern, and to produce more and more complex rhythms. Rhythm games are often used for these activities.
READING - In order that students can eventually play any type of music they desire, reading intervals on the staff which is paired with staff reading, is taught along with rhythmic reading .. All reading activities receive a high priority in the curriculum.
TECHNIQUE - To ensure comfort and facility while playing the piano, students are taught proper physical approaches from the beginning lessons. Excellent fingering habits are taught through scales and chords and well-chosen repertoire and etudes. Technique for its importance to achieving mood and character is a constant theme.
Each student's LEARNING STYLE is realized through the individual attention.
Students are also introduced to ensemble and chamber music and performance, helping them develop higher levels of rhythm, collaboration, understanding of their music as well as expand their musical repertoire. I offer personalized private lessons at affordable prices. The first lesson is free and is an opportunity for me to access the student, and for the student and parent to understand my teaching style. Contact me to see how I can be of service to you.
WELCOME TO CATHERINE BOBBS PIANO STUDIO
When Words leave off, Music begins. Piano study combined with the Love of Music.
Are you looking for a qualified conservatory teacher for your budding prodigy? With 43 years of experience, I have committed my life to teaching young children through high school students the love of music and the lifelong skill of playing the piano. Although some of my students have gone on to have musical careers and have attended fine conservatories, most develop a skill they can enjoy because they have learned to read, understand, and create music. I love what I do and have been teaching young committed award winning students since 1972. Whether your child wants to pursue a career in music or cultivate a skill they can enjoy for a life time, I teach your student musical success always maintaining my commitment to help all young pianists discover and reach their full potential.
ABOUT ME
A Lifetime of Teaching
I believe music is more than notes on a page. I teach the students the technique and interpretive skills they need to truly communicate through their music. Sometimes all it takes to really understand the material is a considerate instructor who knows how to teach at your pace. Having taught pedagogy classes at the Colburn and Oberlin Conservatories as well as taught private lessons in their Community Education Programs, I bring a depth of professional experience and knowledge to those who are eager to expand their minds, talents, and skills. I offer quality, personalized service at affordable prices. Contact me to see how I can be of service to you.
PRIVATE WEEKLY LESSONS
Customized Lessons to Fit Your Individual Young Person's Needs
MONTHLY GROUP WORKSHOPS
Work in skill based classes to develop ear training and note dictation skills, as well as rehearse for upcoming performances.
STUDIO RECITALS FOR ALL AGES
Seasonal Recitals for all students to develop performance skills. Chamber and ensemble music is included.
COMPETITION AND FESTIVAL PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES
Students are encouraged to perform in community events, festivals and competitions.
“Truly talented, amazing and inspiring teacher. The classes were extremely professional but also comfortable. This is a teacher with a warm heart, great attitude and amazing skills. Highly recommended. ”
Julie Xu, Houston, Texas
