
Monika is a piano teacher offering lessons in piano, counterpoint, harmony, music history, and advanced music theory. With a Bachelor of Arts degree and ongoing studies for a Performer's Certificate in piano, Monika's musical journey is enriched by her ARCT performer's certificate and advanced theory certifications from the Royal Conservatory of Music. Fluent in English and German, she tailors her teaching approach to each student's personality and learning style, fostering a creative and personalized learning environment. Whether online or in-person at her studio or your home, Monika's lessons promise meaningful musical growth.
Music has always been at my core, whether through playing or listening. I believe that my musical education has been an integral part of my journey to becoming who I am today, and it continues to guide, fuel, and colour my life. My desire and goal is to share this amazing tool with others, and I view it as a great privilege to be a part of someone's musical journey. My teaching philosophy is grounded in creative expression and the belief that music is inside all of us. My approach is holistic, integrating personality and emotion into music making. As such, my approach to teaching is flexible and personalized; my goal is to hone each individual's strengths. Ultimately, finding joy in learning and creating music is the best fuel for personal motivation to improve one's skills, both technically and musically. I strive to adapt my teaching approach to each student's personality and learning style, and I am open to wishes from students or parents regarding specific learning goals or curriculums.
I have a Bachelor of Arts degree double majoring in music and psychology at the University of Alberta. I am currently enrolled in the Performer's Certificate for piano at the King's University, studying under Dr. Joachim Segger. I have my ARCT performer's certificate and all advanced music theory certificates from the Royal Conservatory of Music.
Awards include several first prize awards at regional festivals, including scholarships and provincial awards with my piano duo partner; and most recently, the Gerry Segger Scholarship in Music Performance.
I have studied classical piano since the age of 4. My advanced private studies were directed under Raymond Yundt, an incredible pedagogue who challenged me creatively and technically and continues to inspire me in my teaching. My training included performance exposure through various competitions, festivals, and masterclasses, which provided me opportunities to learn from many talented, acclaimed musicians such as Dr. Michel Fournier. I also have experience accompanying various community choirs for more than three years. Another unique aspect of my musical experience is extensive collaborative/chamber music, including piano ensembles for 6 hands, and 8 hands for 2 pianos. I am passionate about incorporating collaboration in my music studio, whether it is between students or siblings or between a student and myself. I believe that collaborative music making is a special skill with many unique benefits that round out a an individual's musicianship. Other musical skills includes voice lessons, participation in chamber choirs, violin lessons, as well as participation in a church orchestra playing the piano, violin, and guitar.
Monika is a Beethoven at Home Associate Teacher
Home visit fee: $15 minimum fee. Teachers may negotiate a higher travel fee if the travel distance is longer than they are comfortable with. Most arrangements use the minimum fee.
One-Time Family Registration: $25. This covers your entire family for life - once you're in, everyone can take lessons!
Getting Started Together
We don't offer free trials, but we do something better - a relaxed 2-lesson getting-to-know-you period. You can pause anytime with just 24 hours notice. After your third lesson, we ask for a friendly 2-lesson heads up if you need to stop.
Life Happens - We Get It
Give us 24 hours notice for any cancellation or reschedule and you'll receive full credit. Planning a family vacation or summer break? Perfect - just let us know a day ahead and we'll pause your lessons.
When You're Under the Weather
If illness strikes with short notice (less than 24 hours), you'll still be charged since your teacher has reserved that time. However, most teachers are happy to offer makeup lessons when possible - they have the final say, especially if last-minute cancellations become a pattern.
Stopping Lessons
Need to take a break? We just ask for a 2-lesson notice:
Weekly lessons = 2 weeks notice
Every other week = 3 weeks notice
Twice weekly = 1 week notice
Summer breaks are different - no notice period needed when you return in the fall!
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