Rachel Morin, D.M.A.

Serves Sterling Heights, MI

35244

Hired 20 times

1 employee

33 years in business

Not yet available

5.0

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

Next Service

Hours

Sun 4:00 pm - 11:59 pm

Mon 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Tues 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Wed 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Thurs 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Fri 12:00 pm - 11:59 pm

Sat 4:00 pm - 11:59 pm

Credentials

Background Check

Rachel Morin
Completed on 1/5/2017

Introduction

With over 30 years of experience as a piano teacher, I have guided students of all ages and levels to success in local competitions and festivals. Many of my students have pursued careers in music, while others continue to play for their own enjoyment. Based in Michigan, I offer both in-person and online lessons, with online options available for those who live too far to drive to my home. I hold a doctorate in piano and have been recognized in various prestigious competitions. My extensive background in The Taubman Approach, a peer-reviewed piano technique based on sound physiological and mechanical principles, allows me to help students maximize their virtuosity while avoiding or reversing injury. I have studied with renowned experts such as Dorothy Taubman and Sheila Paige and was appointed to the teacher training program at the Keyboard Wellness Seminar in 2015. My teaching career has included positions at the University of Iowa, Grinnell College, and Macomb Community College. I now teach from my home studio, continuing to help students achieve their musical goals. I am passionate about helping students reach their full potential and grow in confidence. My students have achieved notable successes, such as winning full scholarships to Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, being finalists in the Leonard Slatkin Concerto Competition, and being named winners in the Honors Recital Competition at Schoolcraft College. Additionally, one of my students won first alternate (4th place) in the Michigan Music Teachers SAT semifinals high school division this year, and several students have received keyboard scholarships to Interlochen

Q&A

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

I only teach in person lessons for those students who live close enough to drive to my house. Otherwise, all lessons are usually conducted online. Please do not contact me if you live too far to drive to my house and yet want in person lessons. I charge $50 for a one hour lesson, $40 for 45 minutes and $30 for a half hour. Tuition is due the first week of every month and varies with the number of weeks in that particular month. For example, a student taking 4 half hour lessons in February would pay 4x$30, or $120 at the beginning of that month. I always try to make up missed lessons and make allowances for holidays, sickness and adverse weather conditions. My lessons include 2 recitals per year, opportunities to enter competitions if the student desires, an opportunity to learn about a technique that has been peer reviewed and shown to prevent injuries and maximize virtuosity, and a performer/teacher that knows or is willing to learn almost any piece of music you are interested in studying (the Hammerklavier and some of the works by Carl Vine and Charles Ives might be exceptions, but I'd try) in order to give you a head start with your practicing, making your practice more efficient and purposeful.

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

I am very thorough when I interview a new student. I make sure I understand the student's musical background and any other issues that might impact learning. Usually, if the student has had lessons in the past, I ask him or her to play something they've prepared. I also have the do some sightreading and answer questions pertaining to musical understanding. I also ask questions about technical background -- whether it was more finger or arm weight/movement oriented.

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

I have a doctorate in piano and 25 years experience teaching and learning the Taubman approach to piano.

How did you get started doing this type of work?

I have always taught. Can't really remember a time when I didn't.

What types of customers have you worked with?

All types -- adult beginners, children who are beginners, injured professional pianists, college music students, students with various learning issues etc...

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

I love accompanying and work regularly with the Rochester Community Chorus. I am currently putting a solo recital together.

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

The most important thing is that your child enjoys what he or she is doing. Nothing will happen unless the child likes the teacher and enjoys what he is doing. Next it is important to find someone knowledgeable. It takes a long time to become a qualified teacher. There is more to it than just being a good player. You have to understand a lot about how the body works, how to sequence materials, how to adjust your language to fit a variety of students and situations, etc.....Next I would look for certain personal characteristics. Look for someone who is kind and patient and enjoys working with people. I would also look for someone who is open to learning new things and constantly honing their craft.

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

Be realistic about whether you are the type of family that is willing to take on the challenge of learning to play a musical instrument. Music is a very rewarding pastime, but it's not easy. Usually kids enjoy playing a new piece of music, but very few enjoy practicing -- especially at this time in history, when there are so many things to do that provide instant gratification with little effort. As a parent, you have to be realistic about how enforcing a practice schedule will complicate your life. You will be teaching your child valuable lessons about how to persevere in the face of adversity, how to think critically and solve problems and, in many cases, you will be giving them a life long gift. But it doesn't come for free and it's not easy.