Today we’d like to introduce you to Taleah Berkelman.
Hi Taleah, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I began taking piano lessons around age seven and have loved playing at different capacities ever since. I attended the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse and graduated with highest honors, receiving a Bachelor’s Degree of Arts with Music and Psychology minors and an emphasis in Piano Pedagogy. While at school, I studied music under some amazing instructors, who helped me grow in my understanding of music theory and history, piano performance, ensemble participation and, most importantly, methods of piano teaching. At the time, I studied under Dr. Mary Tollefson and taught piano for eight months at Reed Music Studios in Onalaska, WI.
Then, I started my own business, Ivory Keys Piano Studio! The studio has taken off in a way I never imagined. We offer weekly lessons, parent classes, littles classes (for ages 2-4), performance recitals and are still adding many new opportunities for learning! My strategy is to custom design learning methods and materials to meet the goals each student has. I have taught many styles of music including classical, popular, chordal, jazz, Disney, blues, accompaniment and so much more. As a Christian, I also love teaching students about improv and worship music, so that they may serve their own home churches as I do.
On a more personal level, I love being a pianist and piano teacher. It is such a joy to play the instrument I love and to share music with others – playing at weddings/funerals, leading worship teams, and teaching at my in-home studio. This is literally my dream job and I work hard to make sure I am providing the best possible environment for musical learning. I desire to grow a love of music within every student and support them as they set and achieve their goals.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I would say my biggest challenge has been learning to be adaptable. My students (so far) are all human! We, as humans, have so many experiences, goals, pressures, and emotions that make up who we are and how we relate to music. These variations and diversities are what makes music beautiful and relatable, so I work to encourage my students to emerse themselves fully in the experience of playing the piano. However, these difference amoung people mean that no one-size-fits-all approach to learning the piano will ever be enough. If a student just came from a really tough day at school, is frustrated with his or her lack of progress, or is struggling in a particular area, my job requires that I be patient and adaptable. Often, we can use these things, which may at first seem like set backs, to fuel our motivation for and expression within the music we create.
We’ve been impressed with Ivory Keys Piano Studio, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Ivory Keys Piano Studio is where the magic happens! My first and most important priority as a teacher is to create independent learners. I strive to teach in such a way that my students can continue to develop as musicians long after they discontinue lessons. I want lessons to be something that students enjoy and look forward to every week. I work to create an environment where every voice is heard and mistakes are allowed and creativity is inspired. I think the thing that sets my studio apart is my ability to reach students who are complete beginners or who come feeling uninspired or under motivated. Many times, I have received students whose parents are coming to me as a last resort. I will hear a month or two later how their child is absolutely loving piano in a way they never have! My studio oporates in a very pressure-fee manner. I meet students were they are at and go with them one step further. You haven’t practiced this week? Okay, let’s practice together! You don’t know which hand is your right and which is your left? No problem, let’s work on that! I want to inspire a generation of people to love and share music, to participate no matter where they started or where they want to go.
So often, when I share that I am a piano instructor, adults will tell me, “I wish I had stuck with that as a kid” or “I wish my parent had made me do that when I was younger.” My answer? Start now! It is never too late! I literally will start our first lesson together by asking if you know what the instrument in front of us is called! I love teaching beginners and introducing people into the world of music.
Playing the piano is not a talent some are born with, but a skill anyone can learn!
Other interesting things to note:
Our recitals are hosted bi-anually at a local senior living facility! They make the best audience and my students, especially the kids, get so excited to play for the residents!
I offer individual weekly lessons, group parent classes and littles classes (information pasted below):
One-on-One Individual Instruction
Don’t feel any pressure to be an expert at your first lesson or keep up with a class of fellow musicians. At Ivory Keys Piano Studio, your time will be spent with a personal instructor, receiving instruction and encouragement every step of the way. Your personal goals will be evaluated and you will be provided with custom lessons to help you reach them!
Lessons at Ivory Keys Piano Studio are typically scheduled in weekly, 30 minute time slots. Lessons will include some of everything: performance repertoire, learning games, music theory, skill development, improvisation and so much more! No prior skills or knowledge are needed! You will be guided every step of the way!
Attention all parents!!! – Do you feel uncertain about how to support your child(ren)’s at home practice? I totally get it and designed this class especially for you! My goal is to equip you with tools and resources to enable you to help your child practice, allowing them to get the most possible value from their lesson times. We will spend an hour together going over basic rhythms, note identification, practice strategies, and hand positions. You will head home with loads of “cheat sheets”, game ideas, and questions you can ask your child to encourage them in their practice and growth in music.This class has been so valuable for parents of beginner/elementary students in the past and I hope to see you there!
Summer Music Class for Littles – Join us as we learn music and have fun through a variety of games, songs, and activities! This is a group class designed to introduce young children (2-4yo) to the world of music! They will learn initial piano musical concepts and grow in their love of and exposure to music.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ivorykeyspianostudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ivorykeyspiano/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563519291923
