About Our Services

In 2020, when the world slowed down and we had to practice social distancing, I learned that teaching piano online not only worked, but was effective!  My students continued to learn and grow despite not being able to meet in person.  I realized that as long as I was able to see my students' hands, I could continue to teach them properly.  I teach in- person in the Sarasota, Florida area, but I am delighted to offer online piano lessons to students worldwide.  I meet with students weekly.  I offer 30, 45 or 60 minute lessons.

 

Taking piano lessons online offers several advantages:

 

• Flexibility and Convenience: You can schedule lessons at times that suit your lifestyle, without commuting to a physical location. This allows you to fit lessons around work, school, or other commitments.

• Comfort of Learning from Home: Being in a familiar environment may reduce performance anxiety and help you feel more relaxed during lessons, especially for beginners.

• Cost-Effectiveness: Online lessons are often more affordable than in-person lessons.

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​If you...​

• are an adult who is completely new to the instrument

• are an adult with some piano experience and would like to refresh your memory and learn more​

If you are excited to learn...​

• how to read music

• how to read rhythms

• proper keyboard technique

• a wide variety of piano literature

• how to achieve a wide breadth of expression at the piano

​Or perhaps you...​

• want to bring your keyboard technique to the next level

• could use some assistance in improving your artistry at the piano

• would benefit from learning new, efficient techniques for practice and memorization would like to bring your performances to the next level

​I am very happy to help!

For beginning students, there are a variety of piano method books that I have used with great success over the years. You will learn to read music and will begin playing simple songs within the first lesson. As the student advances, we incorporate literature from a variety of sources in order to keep lessons varied and interesting.​

Piano students will...

• learn scales, cadences and arpeggios in major and minor keys

• learn about music theory

• learn the vocabulary of music

• learn various keyboard exercises, such as Hanon, Czerny and Heller

• learn whatever fun pieces they like as their skill level grows​. 

 

Of course, what the student gains from their piano lessons is dependent on how committed they are to consistent practice. Those who do so inevitably have more fun, because they learn more quickly and see the fruits of their labor more readily.​

From Martha's Google Reviews:​

 

"Martha will not let you take the short-cuts to greatness. She knows that having a foundation is crucial to refining your skill in classical music. I appreciate Martha’s guidance and instruction with each lesson. Most importantly I’m always excited to come back." - K.G.​

"I took music lessons from Martha for years and she’s still a very dear friend today! Her instruction was patient, kind, and encouraging and she wants nothing but success for her students. Her talent and personality are unmatched!! All in all, good vibes." - L.B.​"

"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.

 

Three Steps to participate in an online piano lesson:

 

1.  Prepare the Right Equipment:

 

• Piano or Keyboard: You'll need a functional piano or keyboard, preferably one with weighted keys for a more authentic playing experience.
• Computer/Tablet/Smartphone: A reliable device for video calls, such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone.
• Stable Internet Connection: A fast and stable internet connection is crucial to avoid interruptions during the lesson.
• Camera and Microphone: Your device's built-in camera and microphone should suffice, but you might want an external webcam and microphone for better quality, especially to capture sound clearly.

 

2. Set Up a Comfortable Learning Space:

 

• Position Your Device: Place the device at an angle where your teacher can clearly see both your hands and the keyboard. You might need a stand or an adjustable tripod for this.
• Quiet and Distraction-Free Environment: Ensure the area is quiet and free from distractions to stay focused on the lesson.
• Good Lighting: Make sure the area is well-lit so the teacher can see your hands and posture clearly.

 

3. Install Necessary Software or Apps:

 

• Video Conferencing Platform: Most online lessons are conducted through Zoom, Skype, Google Meet, Whatsapp or other video platforms. Download and test the software before the lesson.

 

 

Your Teacher

The piano has been a part of my life longer than most people. I began taking lessons just a week after my sixth birthday and continued my piano studies consistently through high school. Though I initially planned to major in Biology, my piano teacher encouraged me to audition for piano. Reluctantly, I did—and won a scholarship. My advisor convinced me to give the music program a try for one semester, and once I started at Stetson University, I found my community and never looked back. In 2025, I will celebrate 30 years of teaching piano, a journey that began at Stetson University's Community School in 1995.

 

After graduating from Stetson, I earned my Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance from the University of South Florida in Tampa. This led to a career performing in operas and recitals as a singer, alongside 14 years of teaching voice at the college level. I also serve as the Director of Music at an Episcopal church, where I play piano, organ, and direct the choir. In my free time, you’ll find me on the tennis court!