Alan Cross Music

Serves Cliffside Park, NJ

35244

Hired 17 times

1 employee

18 years in business

$42

4.8

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

Next Service

Hours

Sun Closed

Mon 8:00 am - 7:00 pm

Tues 8:00 am - 7:00 pm

Wed 8:00 am - 7:00 pm

Thurs 8:00 am - 7:00 pm

Fri 8:00 am - 7:00 pm

Sat Closed

Credentials

Background Check

Alan Cross
Completed on 8/1/2019

Introduction

Laying Foundations, Expanding Creativity, Awaking Aspiration. Alan Cross is trained classically and in jazz. He has studied and played for 26 years including a focus on music at Concordia University. Alan has played as a pianist in jazz combos, as a choir accompanist, as a keyboardist in several pop bands, and has worked as a music director. As an experienced piano teacher, he recently moved to Northern California from Aliso Viejo, where he was the music director at Aliso Viejo Church of the Cross and Christian School. Alan has helped many students develop solid musical foundations, expanded creative abilities, and a deep-rooted love for music. Alan has had great success with both children and adults. Lessons are taught out of Alan's home in Saratoga, CA, and online via Skype or FaceTime and other helpful programs. His rates are $45/half hour, $62/forty-five minutes, and $82/hour. To inquire about lessons, please write and include the age of the student, a brief description of his or her playing experience, and the times/days you are available for lessons.

Q&A

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

I offer half hour, forty five minute and one hour lessons. Half hour lessons are $42 forty five minute lessons are $62 and hour lessons are $80.

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

Generally I first try to figure what the student's interests and goals are. Much of this happens through Thumbtack but also may continue once we meet in person. I also will provide curriculum on your first lesson, sometimes the second, which includes custom scale and chord worksheets, jumping into books and finding appropriate exercises when helpful.

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

I studied music, taking private lessons and music theory and ensemble classes at Concordia University. My focus was on Jazz and Classical. I was a leader in the Concordia Jazz Combo as well as in the Sunday Service Worship Ensemble.

How did you get started doing this type of work?

I was encouraged by two other teachers to begin teaching. Pat Riffel from Orange County, California and Concordia University, encouraged me to begin teaching with a student she had been having trouble with. I also had been working as a piano accompanist and an established piano teacher in that choir encouraged me to pick up teaching. I have been teaching since 2007.

What types of customers have you worked with?

I have worked with all ages. The young all the way to the retired. I find I am generally good at finding music to fit the person and that along with good practice routines, parental envolvement, and the right curriculum results in good things..

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

I am happy with how my students are doing. I have a wide range of ages and they are all progressing. Making sure the students are motivated and improving is important and important to me.

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

It's important to make sure your teacher has a good ear and knows how to play well and with skill. A good ear and facility go hand in hand to be a good musician and also teacher. Good teaching principles are important, knowing how to keep the students motivated and learning is important, and so is making sure the parents are involved and informed as to what is going on. Checking on these things can help get you a good teacher and good fit.

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

What kind of music does the student want to get into? Does the student want to include ear training and being able to play by ear? How much time do you have to dedicate to practicing? What training level does your teacher have and what do you want to do ultimately with playing.