I'm a piano teacher, skilled at bringing out the best in students. I do this by tailoring my approach to their individual learning styles, ability and musical interests, be it classical, jazz, pop or musical theater.

Whether you're a child just beginning to learn, a talented youngster exploring music seriously, or an adult returning to the keyboard after many years, I can help you achieve your goals.

I have a master's degree in piano from one of the top music conservatories and am an active performer. I can work with you if you only have a limited amount of time to practice but want to experience the fun of making music. I can also prepare you for concerts and competitions.

I believe that studying music theory - chords and other building blocks of music - and playing a certain amount by ear enhances a pianist's abilities and whenever possible, I try to include these elements in lessons.

So don't put music off any longer. Make it real in your life! If you're serious about lessons, we can schedule a free initial meeting.

Educational Background and Performance

I'm a pianist who models for my students the connection between what's learned in the studio and the communication and joy it can bring to others. I've won praise for my recitals in Lincoln Center and chamber music in Carnegie Recital Hall but take equal pride in motivating students at every interest and ability level.

Winner of the Mason & Hamlin Competition, I hold a master's degree from Manhattan School of Music and studied piano privately with Gary Graffman, former director of the Curtis Institute of Music. I also studied art song, opera and chamber music at the celebrated Music Academy of the West in Santa Barbara.

I've been active in arts journalism, serving as classical and jazz music critic for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and arts and entertainment editor at other newspapers.

I'm on the faculty of Philadelphia-based Settlement Music School, where I teach piano and music theory. I'm also on staff at Westminster Choir College in Princeton, where I work with vocal students on musical preparation, style and diction, and play for lessons and recitals. I've maintained a private teaching studio for more than 20 years and encourage students to perform - some have even gone on to win competitions.

Within the past several years, I've developed a highly successful piano/vocal ensemble with my husband called Follow the Drinking Gourd (www.followthedrinkinggourd.net). Named for the song used to guide slaves to freedom on the Underground Railroad, the group highlights America's diversity through its rich musical heritage.

I've also engaged audiences of late with piano recitals that combine performance and commentary on the theme, “From Romanticism to Ragtime.”

“I love to share my insights on music and through the programming, make connections for listeners.”

• Lessons: Given in my Cherry Hill studio, convenient to the greater Philadelphia area and residents of Camden, Gloucester and Burlington Counties in New Jersey.
• All ages and levels welcome!
• Rates: Upon request
• Contact: 609-505-1248, dgoldsmith1@msn.com