Mark is flexible in his approach to teaching, tailoring the program to the student and solving any immediate problems so that the lessons are enjoyable and beneficial. He works well with both children and adults and teaches all styles and levels.* With young children who want to begin or continue their study of piano, Mark teaches reading, counting, theory, good hand and finger position, interpretation, and ways to practice effectively. He uses a combination of method books along with individual pieces and songs that the student enjoys. With adults who want to play professionally or for pleasure, a personal study program is devised that meets each student's needs and desires. For example, classical music is taught in varying degrees, depending on the interest of the student. If proficiency in jazz, blues, or pop is sought, emphasis is placed on the demands of those styles, such as chord structure and voicing, improvising, how to accompany, etc. Recitals are held at least once a year, and all students are encouraged to participate. Beginning at an early age, Mark thoroughly trained in classical piano for twelve years. Later he spent many years learning, composing, and performing jazz, blues and popular styles. He has worked professionally as a musician since 1972 and taught intensively since 2002. Mark teaches in the communities of Pasadena, Sierra Madre, La Cañada-Flintridge, Montrose, La Crescenta, Arcadia, Monrovia, Temple City, San Gabriel, San Marino, Lynwood, and Altadena. Lessons are usually given at the student's home and in some cases at Mark's home. Please contact Mark for schedule and price information.   *Except advanced classical.