About Piano Lessons

Learning piano can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life—whether you’re starting for the very first time, returning after years away from the keyboard, or looking to take your playing to the next level.

I specialize in teaching adult and senior learners, many of them accomplished women who spent decades building careers before finally turning their attention to music. I create lessons tailored to your goals, interests, and learning style.

Lessons take place in my private home studio in The Meadows—a peaceful, unhurried space designed for focus.  Many of my students tell me this quiet, personal setting is part of what makes lessons feel less like a task and more like a welcome pause in the week.

“I took piano lessons from Martha, she is an excellent teacher. She provides good tips and feedback on how to improve your skills! She is an amazing singer as well. Her goal is to have her student excel!” — M.R.

My approach combines expert instruction with patience, encouragement, and a sense of humor, creating an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and enjoying the process.

You may be looking to:
• Learn to read music and play songs you love
• Develop healthy keyboard technique and musical confidence
• Refresh skills from earlier lessons
• Prepare for auditions or musical opportunities
• Improve artistry, interpretation, and performance skills
• Learn more effective practice and memorization strategies

With over 30 years of teaching experience and degrees in Music at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, I help students build a strong musical foundation while keeping lessons engaging and personally meaningful.

Most students take 60-minute lessons once per week, at a consistent day and time, and many study using a lesson package rather than paying lesson by lesson—a rhythm that tends to suit students who value steady, ongoing progress.

Beginners begin reading music and playing simple pieces from the very first lessons, while more experienced students work on repertoire, technique, musicianship, and artistic expression appropriate to their level.

Students study:
• Music reading and rhythm skills Music theory and musical vocabulary
• Scales, arpeggios, and keyboard technique
• Exercises and études that develop fluency and coordination
• Piano literature selected to match individual interests and goals

My studio is located one mile south of the intersection of University Parkway and Honore Avenue in Sarasota, in The Meadows.

If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I too old to learn piano?” the answer may surprise you. I invite you to explore this article and discover what’s possible.

I am always happy to meet prospective students in person or over Zoom to answer questions and discuss whether lessons might be a good fit for you.