Auckland
Piano Lessons | Theory Lessons, Composition Lessons, Music And Movement For Under Fives, Online Lessons
Bio
My name is Kirsten Rielly. I am the owner of West Harbour Piano Studio. I am a multi-passionate person who loves literature, art, books, family, food, and nature (not necessarily in that order!).
I studied classical piano and took music as an academic subject throughout my school years. I am immensely grateful for the learning and skills I developed during these years. As can happen with many students though, my playing fell by the wayside in adult life for various reasons. I went on to study English Literature and Librarianship at university, and now hold a Bachelor of Arts, a Master of Arts (Hons), and a Master of Library and Information Studies.
A few years ago, I was able to get back to playing the piano and refresh much of my knowledge. I left my corporate career and immersed myself in the world of piano education and I couldn’t be happier! I am a lifelong learner so I do have my own teacher for advanced students and I invest a lot in my own professional and personal development. Currently, I am completing my fourth university degree, a Bachelor of Music, with a focus on music education.
The modern learning environment is so rich and diverse now with so many opportunities for creativity and fun at the piano. There is so much great music to learn and enjoy that I believe in working with my students to help them play the music they love whenever it is appropriate.
My teaching style is student-led while also offering guidance and direction. I believe that my biggest role as a teacher is to instil self-belief in my students and a passion for music that will last them a lifetime, providing solace, joy, an outlet for self-expression and many other wonderful things!
Teaching Info
My programmes offer a rich learning experience full of wonderful music across different genres right from the beginner levels including blues and jazz styles. Add to that composition, improvisation, accompaniments, and arrangements and you have all the ingredients to begin developing a well-rounded musician right from a student’s first months and years.
Over time, students build a solid musical foundation, enabling them to develop musical self-expression and have music as a lifelong companion.
My lessons focus on developing a well-rounded, joyful musician with a wide set of skills. Lessons cover creativity, healthy technique, solid reading skills, aural development, musical expression, theory, and performance.
For ages 4-6, I use Piano Safari and Friends as my main resource. We incorporate lots of movement, rhythm, rote playing, listening, and creativity.
For ages 7 and up, I use a variety of resources depending on the students. Most new students between 7-9 will start with Piano Safari Level 1. Students aged 10 and over will be assessed on an individual basis to determine initial resources.