WELCOME 

I have been teaching piano privately in my Danbury studio since 1978 providing piano instruction to all ages and levels of achievement in an environment that accommodates the individuality of each student. My philosophy is that everyone can make music and that through careful instruction and practice, each individual, no matter what talent they bring to their lessons, can find their musical voice and enrich their life and the lives of those around them.

Instruction embraces all kinds of music from the great masters to music being written by today's composers. While the curriculum is classically based, students explore all musical genres including classics, jazz, pop, show tunes, blues, and folk music. Instruction is carefully tailored to accommodate each student's particular learning style with parent, student and teacher collaborating to establish individual goals. Lessons include instruction in theory (especially rhythm), ear-training, technique, and history with students receiving detailed instruction and direction in how to practice. Very careful attention is paid to assisting students develop their musicality.

Students have the option of participating in numerous studio activities including two studio recitals each year, outreach visits to perform at local assisted living facilities, local association recitals and competition, studio group lessons, field trips to concerts, museums, and other sites of musical interest as well as the National Guild Auditions and the Musicianship Achievement Program, a national comprehensive program with heavy emphasis on music theory. Additionally, the studio provides opportunities for ensemble performance. Lessons for all but the very young student are either 45 minutes or one hour and teacher and student meet individually once each week.

THE STUDIO

The studio is located at 152 South King St., across from King Street School in Danbury, Ct. and includes a 7' Ritmuller grand, a 51" Ritmuller professional upright and dozens of percussion instruments used in rhythm activities. The studio provides comfortable space for parents waiting for their children.

POLICY

• Students are expected to come to lessons regularly with all materials including their binder.
• Nails are to be trimmed and hands clean.
• Students are to arrive and be picked up promptly.
• It is requested that friends not come unless it has been cleared with Mrs. Cooke beforehand.
• The studio year runs from the first week of Sept. to the third week of June
• Tuition will be billed each month according to the number of weeks the studio is open. Tuition payments are due on the first lesson of each month.
• Students are expected to commit to the year but if they need to withdraw, one month's notice is expected.

BIOGRAPHY

• Piano study since the age of 7 Student of Pat DeLong (Eastman School of Music) and Ellen Mosher (Michigan State University)
• Bachelor of Music Education + graduate credits in piano, voice, conducting, performance practices, theory, handbells from SUNY Potsdam, Westminster Choir College and Western Ct. State University
• Elementary music teacher K-3 in Somers, N.Y.
• Director of Music at King St. Church, Danbury, CT, children's and adult vocal, bell and chime choirs
• Accompanist at various schools
• President of Western Ct. Music Teacher's Association
• Competition Chair, WCMTA
• Duo piano performances in Danbury area