About

Valerie Bates, nctm  |  pianist & instructor
 

Hello, and welcome to Keynote Instruction. :)

Here is my story.

I grew up with the luxury of being immersed in music. My parents were music majors when they met at Northwestern University; they went on to become professional musicians and educators. I began and ended my day with music, because that was my home environment.

I strongly believe in the power of music to enrich our lives. Learning to play a musical instrument changes how we think, plan, and present ourselves to the world. These benefits can be carried with us throughout a lifetime.

I recognize that the majority of piano students do not become professional musicians or concert pianists. That’s ok! But this should not exclude anyone from learning to play in a musical environment that has quality instruments, materials, and instruction. A person that takes golf lessons may not play in the U.S. Open; they just want to enjoy their game and improve their swing. That doesn’t mean they should limit their golf instruction to online tutorials or only play mini-golf.

My musical interests are split between classical and jazz. I have observed that the best jazz musicians often have a classical foundation, and I continue to practice and teach both styles of music. Because of my jazz performance experience, my studio has multiple acoustic and digital instruments, so that I can play along with my students. In addition, I use AI-powered software and backing tracks to make practice more fun.

I have observed that the best results come from teamwork between students, families, and instructors. I love to use technology, but I feel that technology should not replace quality teaching. As we work together, each success magnifies the joy and feeling of accomplishment that comes from meeting musical goals.

My ultimate goal as a piano teacher is to create an environment where each student can develop the skills needed to keep playing for life.

Because making music is what matters.

history

• Over 20 years experience

• Teaching online since 2013

performances

• Jazz in the Park

• Art Museums and Galleries

• Private Concerts / Receptions in New York City and surrounding areas, Wisconsin, and Illinois

• Virtual, live streamed concerts in the U.S. and abroad

credentials

• Classical & Jazz teaching and performance skills

• Specialized training in piano pedagogy, jazz performance and improvisation, early childhood music programs (such as Kindermusik and Musikgarten)

• Member of National, State, and Local Music Teachers' Associations (MTNA, LVMTA)

• Nationally Certified Teacher of Music (Piano)