Letters & Performances

July 31, 2006

 Dear Paul,

I can’t believe that it’s already been four years since my first piano lesson. Throughout the past few years you’ve given me many lessons that I’ll remember and appreciate for the rest of my life. I can honestly say that I could not have asked for a better teacher. Your patience and your easy-going style during lessons has motivated me to keep learning and I believe this is what makes you great. Many times you’ve said that you’re a cream puff compared to other teachers, but what separates you from the others is that you love your job and you really care about your students. I realized this during my first lesson when I was only ten years old.  

I can remember when my mom had to drag me to my first piano lesson because I was so afraid, but now I love coming to lessons. I’ll be turning fifteen next week and it’s weird to think that in another year I’ll be driving to lessons by myself! I can remember when I took only half hour lessons, was working on the first year book and lived only five minutes away. Now I’m taking hour lessons, working on many pieces and live an hour away. My parents and I are happy to make the long drive because we know that you’re worth it. 

I believe I can speak for all of your students when I say: “You’re the best there is.”  I look forward to improving as a pianist and growing as a person with you as my teacher. Thank you so much for all you’ve done for me and here’s to another four years of lessons!

Sincerely, 

Derek

Derek playing Billy Joel's 'Piano Man' @ 15 years old- 4 years of lessons

Derek playing Bach @ 13 years old - 3 years of lessons

Derek playing Mozart @ 12 years old - 2 years of lessons

January 16, 2002

Paul,

I want to take this time to thank you for the incredible work you’ve been doing with Derek. You often say that Derek is gifted with the piano, but I have to say that if it weren’t for him having a great, sensitive teacher like you, I don’t think Derek would be doing as well as he is. Your calm gentle manner and your patience are wonderful gifts. These attributes are what make you a great teacher. Once again, thank-you for sharing your talent with Derek.

Christine

August 20, 2003

Dear Paul,

I would like to tell you what a joy it has been having you as my piano teacher for the past two years. Now that the house is sold and the move to New York is definite, the hunt for a new piano teacher begins again.

Finding a good piano teacher is difficult, finding a great piano teacher is next to impossible. A good teacher will make a sincere effort to achieve success but I've found that with the most difficult aspects, the teacher's patience eventually wears thin and they move on.

Only a teacher that won't give up trying to explain a difficult concept and one that makes sure you really understand, can be considered great. I include you in the 'great' category not only because of your dedication to your craft and the discipline and patience required to teach on a daily basis, but because you really care.

I have truly enjoyed each and every one of our lessons and I wish you all the best.

With warm regards,

Joe

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