FAQs
Studio Overview
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All skill levels
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7 years old and up
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Adults at any level
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Music theory, sight reading, ear training
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Fundamentals (technique)
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Classical curriculum plus popular, jazz, religious, duet and 2-piano music if interested
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Winter and spring recitals
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Two studio grand pianos
Every age and ability can reap great benefits from studying the piano. The key to success is a teacher who can put together well-paced lesson material that accomplishes goals while being fun and interesting and a student excited about learning.
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ADULTS: CONTACT ME FOR A COPY OF THE ADULT POLICY DESIGNED ESPECIALLY FOR YOU.
Musical Journey and Teaching Approach
Music is woven into the fabric of my life. With degrees in piano performance and sacred music, I've dedicated my journey to lifelong learning and growth as a pianist.
There is an endless world of music to explore, and the pursuit of it often leads to exciting, unexpected paths. Piano studies opened doors to related skills. I began playing string bass in 6th grade, which enriched my ensemble experience. Through college, I performed in orchestras, concert bands, small string, and jazz ensembles. Singing in choirs and studying conducting gave me the skills to direct choirs for churches and schools, and my ensemble work prepared me to accompany vocalists, instrumentalists, and choirs. I was honored to accompany The Christian Choral Society of Austin for many years and currently enjoy accompanying high school students at UIL solo competitions. Over time, my path has shown how piano can lead to diverse and fulfilling musical experiences.
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For almost 50 years I've taught piano students. I use the best materials - old and new - which includes classical, jazz, pop and church music. Students acquire skills needed for lifelong involvement with music.
In my studio, students thrive in a learning environment that balances challenge with support. A student's innate abilities and musical interests are evaluated and built upon. Fundamentals are taught and strengthened including note reading, sight reading, theory, ear-training and performance techniques of the baroque, classical, romantic and contemporary time periods, a working knowledge of chords, and music history. These skills can easily allow one to play a wide variety of musical genres. Ensemble playing including two-piano literature is explored as well.
Students receive help preparing for special school and church events. Three studio recitals are held every year, and students can participate in festivals and events hosted by the Austin District Music Assn. /Texas Music Teachers Assn.
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Those who become musicians express music from their hearts. British composer Ralph Vaughan Williams once said, 'The art of music above all the other arts is the expression of the soul of a nation.'
My goal is for the piano to bring beauty and expression to the souls of my students.
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What Students and Parents Say
"I want to take a moment to say how happy and grateful we are that you are my son's piano teacher. You know when to push him and what he's capable of. We appreciate how devoted and dedicated you are to your students from lessons, to planning and coordinating recitals, to zoom lessons, to handling everything for the festivals and to how kind and patient you are with your students. We don't say it enough but wanted you to know that we love and appreciate you so much!"
A note from a local high school orchestra director after recording accompaniment tracks for UIL soloists: "Thank you for taking the time to make this work. Alyssa played beautifully and the parts fit together perfectly. Thank you so much."
"My son started piano lessons with Mrs. Dolan last year, and we are amazed at how much he has learned in only six months. She is very patient and clearly has a passion for music and for teaching."
"Mrs. Dolan is an amazing piano teacher. My daughter surpassed in 9 months what took me 3 years to learn when I was taking piano!"
"Thank you for giving the gift of music to our daughter. She has found joy, confidence and strength. You’ve given her more than 30 minutes a week and we are so grateful."
"Your confidence in my son's ability is pulling him forward with his skills just like I'd hoped. You are the perfect teacher for him!"
"Mrs. Dolan is an awesome instructor! From the time we met, I had a sense of a great teacher student connection. One of my retirement goals was to invest in a piano and learn to play. This would be a challenge for sure but Mrs. Dolan has accepted me as a challenge and I am expecting my love for piano music and Mrs. Dolan's teaching skills will fulfill my dream of playing the piano. The best is yet to come!!!"
"I recommend Mrs. Dolan highly. I hadn’t played in 40 years and am happy with my progress."
Spring Recital
Spring Recital
Spring Recital
Mini-Recital