Education
Teaching
Piano: own studio – children, youngster, adults (present); Utrecht School of the Arts (till 2017); Codarts/Havo voor muziek en dans (vocational education for music and dance)
Music theory: Utrecht School of the Arts (1997-2017); University of Utrecht (2003/4)
Research skills: Utrecht School of the Arts (1997-2017); Codarts (present)
Reflective practice: Codarts (present)
Stage presence: Utrecht School of the Arts (2005-2008)
Developing performances: Utrecht School of the Arts (2008-2010)
Coaching
Research coaching: Utrecht School of the Arts (1997-2017); Codarts (present)
Chamber music: Utrecht School of the Arts (2015-2017)
Educational design, curriculum development
As educational manager and board member: Utrecht School of the Arts (2003-2010)
As Head of educational innovation: Codarts (2018-present)
Piano lessons, coaching, supervision, workshops
Having a great passion for teaching and for understanding the wishes and needs of students, I teach in different kinds of teaching situations, ranging from preparation for conservatoire education in individual sessions to more general music workshops for amateurs, courses in piano-literature, and coaching for specific situations. At the Utrecht Conservatoire I teach music theory, ensembles and do supervision of students’ masters thesis.
I am a qualified teacher, and continued my education in musicology, music theory and educational science (PhD).
With any questions on teaching or coaching, please do contact me through the contact form.
About regular pianolessons
In 1995 I started teaching on a regular basis to pupils and students of various levels. For a long time I have had a private studio with children and adults, from beginners to advanced level, students from the Schumann Akademie and students who were preparing for vocational training.
Amateurs who are intermediate, intermediate or advanced, as well as professional pianists who want advice in the field of technical and mental preparation for performances or who encounter certain problems or blockages, can contact me. The lessons are about a collaboration between me and my students. We investigate how and why we like, enjoy, dislike or find something difficult. I will be guiding the process, but cooperation and exchange are paramount. The most important point in the lessons is learning to understand how to develop on a daily basis according to musical and technichal guidelines. In the lessons, a balance regarding the study process is sought together: how do you study and how to enjoy making music.
In principle, the lessons take place weekly and last 45 or 60 minutes. Holidays take place according to the school holiday schedule; twice a year there is a student concert, around Christmas and before the summer holidays. For more information about lessons, activities and workshops, please contact me via the contact details.
About coaching
Professional pianists can sign up for coaching regarding a particular part. Such as concentration, technique, study methods and techniques, specific repertoire, etc. I also offer coaching in the field of concert preparation, relaxation and dealing with stress and nervousness. Existing ensembles can register for chamber music coaching. In these lessons we work on listening to each other, communicating during rehearsals, learning to connect to each other regarding breathing, phrasing, intonation, pulse awareness, focus, sense of style, technique, etc.
Professional education (Schumann Akademie)
The piano training can be completed in 3 to 4 years, depending on the starting level. The training lays a foundation for professional practice as a performing pianist, accompanist, teacher or a combination of different professional activities. Through a combination of individual lessons and a group lesson (within the same week) you are trained to become an independently thinking and working musician. The training aspect has priority over the repertoire, i.e. that which has to be built up, such as a solid technique, is leading in the choice of the repertoire. During the group lesson, the training aspect is included (this can be technique, but also a mental exercise or a more general physical aspect). During that week, the students are instructed to work on the aspect discussed, and also to study together. During the group lesson, the students learn to listen to each other and give feedback. During the individual lesson there is time for specific questions from the student. The teacher guides the student in the analysis of these questions and the search for answers and solutions. Important aspects within the training are the development of a flexible attitude, i.e. learning to function in different professional situations, building self-confidence and building a flexible and reliable technique. This includes a proper balance between tension and relaxation, a strong hand with flexible fingers, freedom in arms and shoulders, understanding the relationship between movement and sound. All students play together, 4 hands, two pianos, with instrumentalists and vocalists. Teamwork is an essential part of the training. The training includes various aspects such as:
- mental preparation and concentration
- physical development and training
- development of the ear, hearing in general and especially for the piano (phrasing, sound, length of notes)
- repertoire knowledge and learning to make choices from the diverse range of repertoire
- studying efficiently and effectively
- communicate with colleagues, other instrumentalists, audience
- transferring music & sharing knowledge and experience
If necessary: reduce tension and stress, reduce (over) fatigue and pain in limbs due to incorrect study and learning how to eliminate this. In addition to possible physical barriers, attention is paid to building up self-confidence with regard to playing in public. It is not just about gaining experience but about being coached in stage situations. You can always contact me for questions about coaching and lessons. This also applies to taking a trial lesson. (see contact details)