Sean Knapp

Serves Pasadena, CA

35244

Hired 16 times

1 employee

18 years in business

$150/lesson

5.0

This pro accepts payments via Cash, Check, Credit card, PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle.

Next Service

Hours

Sun 8:00 am - 10:00 pm

Mon 8:00 am - 10:00 pm

Tues 8:00 am - 10:00 pm

Wed 8:00 am - 10:00 pm

Thurs 8:00 am - 10:00 pm

Fri 8:00 am - 10:00 pm

Sat 8:00 am - 11:59 pm

Credentials

Background Check

Sean Knapp
Completed on 7/9/2021

Introduction

MFA Interdisciplinary Dance Performance and MFA Piano Performance, Tulane University I love my life, and I love teaching! Currently, I have a wonderful, diverse group of students who inspire me. Some are children as young as 5 years old, and others are adults, from complete beginners to award-winning artists. Now, I'm looking for more talented, passionate, and hard-working students here on Thumbtack! In addition to performance, I am trained in pedagogy, which means I know how to teach in many different ways. I create a unique lesson plan for every student, based on their interests and abilities. Ultimately, I want lessons to be fun! Students are taught how to approach every piece of music/dance confidently, economically, and artistically. My Master’s Thesis focused on the dynamic, interdependent relationship between movement and sound. Deconstructing piano technique into simple choreographic units helps students learn faster and play more expressively. I am very proud of receiving my Master of Fine Arts in Piano Performance under world renowned concert and recording artist, Faina Lushtak. My ballet training includes School of American Ballet, NYC Ballet, Les Ballets Trockadero de Monte Carlo, and Delta Festival Ballet.

Q&A

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?

A typical lesson is 45 minutes or 1 hour, paid in advance. Monthly and annual rates are available. I do not teach 30 minute lessons. It's just not enough time to do a piano lesson the right way.

What is your typical process for working with a new customer?

I want to learn about my customer's interests, aspirations, insecurities, and preferences, so that I can make a unique lesson program just for them.

What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?

Master of Fine Arts Piano Performance Tulane University, Bachelor of Fine Arts Piano Performance Tulane University, Brandywine International Piano Institute

How did you get started doing this type of work?

I started teaching our next door neighbor's wild set of twins when I was in 9th Grade. I have been teaching ever since!

What types of customers have you worked with?

I have taught children, adults, and I have even worked with special needs students. It's never too early or late to start playing piano!

Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?

I recently created an interdisciplinary dance work, merging live classical piano performance with electronic media and movement. The work, entitled Sonata 9, premiered April 11 at Dixon Hall in New Orleans, LA. It was the culmination of two years of hard work and research. I'm also proud of my new book of original compositions, The Laban Etudes, based on Laban Movement Theory.

What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?

Find a teacher with a higher level degree. Don't waste your time and money on an amateur posing as a professional. You will become a stronger pianist, in less time, with a knowledgeable teacher.

What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?

Customers should consider investing in a quality acoustic piano or at the very least a full size electronic keyboard with weighted keys. Some music stores have pianos for rent.