Laura Elston
Piano – Harmony – Improvisation
1 hour - $60 / 45 minutes - $45
30 minutes = $35
FREE - 30 Minute Trial Lesson
Teaches: Beginner - Intermediate
Languages: English
Superior rating
ABOUT
Play With Pizazz! is the motto that guides our music lessons. Whether you’re preparing for a night on stage or you want to play folk tunes in your living room, you’ll enjoy the gift of musicianship.
Is it easy to get pizazz? Mostly, but not always. Is it fun? Every minute! You’ll get delight from taking unexpected leaps forward in your playing, and on some days, you’ll surprise yourself with how good you sound.
As a piano teacher with decades of experience, I’ve seen most of the traps that students can fall into; I’ve learned well how to steer students smoothly around them. I’ll show you the easiest and most effective tips, tricks and techniques, the ones that make your playing swing.
Book me now for a free 30-minute lesson.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Trained in performance and composition at the Royal Conservatory of Music (Gr. X) and at Queen's University at Kingston.
Studied pedagogy at the Suzuki Kingston Institute and the Bigler~Lloyd-Watts Piano Pedagogy Program.
Graduate of the Robbins-Madanes Coaching Program
Private music teacher since 1988
TEACHING APPROACH
My teaching aims for a good combination of fun and mastery for the student.
Children follow an assigned routine with choice of repertoire. Adult learners may choose to focus on a particular style of playing. Whatever a mature student wants to learn, we start there, from which point we develop talent and round out skills.
In addition to repertoire and technique, a course of study usually includes basic theory, rhythm work, interval training, sight-playing, playing by ear, improvisation, and harmony.
Private Piano Lessons Include:
Friendly, step-by-step instruction
One-on-one lessons geared to your learning style
Two hours of lesson time per month
Unlimited email and telephone support
Customized study notes
Supplemental music and materials
Performance opportunities
REVIEWS
“You are a fantastic teacher. You can make every lesson funny and interesting.”
“Thank you, Laura, for your patience and understanding. It’s wonderful to be taught piano by a great teacher.”
“As a teacher of 30 years, I admire your pedagogy.”
“Thank you again for all of your guidance and fabulous, tailored, dedicated teaching.”
“You are an awesome teacher and I really like getting taught by you!”
“Thanks so much for all your help with James and his music. We have enjoyed this past year, your spirit and sense of humour.”
“Thank you for your incredible patience, insight and commitment.”
“Thank you for the great year that Rachel has had. You really made it fun to learn.”
“Thank you for giving us such a great year of learning to play the piano and the guitar. Also, thank you for letting us have the chance to have rockin’ duets.”
“Shannon is sure enjoying her piano time with you. Thanks again”
“Laura Elston is an extraordinary piano teacher. ... I am impressed.”
“Thank you Laura for being such a supportive and encouraging teacher”
“Both Michelle and I are extremely pleased with the progress that Conor has made with you over the last year, and Conor has certainly enjoyed it. We have been thrilled with his enthusiasm for piano and music that you have fostered in him and have recommended you to a number of our friends.”
“Thank you so very much for all your work teaching piano to Kayla and Lauren. They really enjoy it!”
“Thank you so very much ... I enjoyed my piano lessons with you, not only for the music lessons, but also for your knowledge and sense of humour. You made it fun.”
“Thank you so much for your fabulous lessons you taught! I learned so much from you. Not only are your lessons fun, but so are you. Your kindness is infectious and you are very selfless with your time. Thank you, Laura, for an amazing year.”
“Lessons are an absolute joy!”
“You are a truly gifted piano teacher who uses innovative techniques to engage your students. We will happily recommend students to you. Thank you for your years of patient work with our children.”
“Thank you Laura for the wonderful lessons. My daughter made significant improvements over the two years. She enjoyed them very much!”
“You are an amazing and friendly teacher!”
“I had great time learning from you. I like your teaching method very much, your talents, your piano techniques, and the easy and friendly learning experience.”
“Thank you for an amazing year of piano lessons! Lucy has learned so much and has really enjoyed her lesson each week. You’ve done a wonderful job of connecting with her and helping to foster her love of music.”
“I love Laura’s method of teaching. She’s so flexible, and it’s so easy to grasp the information that she’s teaching.”