Michael Bies
pianist, composer, educator

bio          compositions          performance          lessons          teaching philosophy



Teaching Philosophy

    I believe that anyone can learn how to play the piano and more importantly, music in general. You do not need special talent or a "great ear" or "natural gifts". It may be true that those who succeed in the world of music often have an innate ability and are quick with the comprehension of musical ideas and thoughts, but anyone can learn the basics of the musical art. That is why my focus in lessons is on the individual and I understand that everyone moves at their own pace. This is not to say that I do not challenge and "push" my students, but I make sure that the things we work on in lessons are just at the tip of the students' musical reach to ensure forward motion and progress.

    On a more specific note, in dealing with younger students/children, I have adopted a strategy of trying to make connections with what the child likes and I don't hesitate to incorporate those likes into the lessons. I am not a strict music teacher who believes a music lesson must be solely about music or that a piano lesson must be solely about the piano with no fun involved. I stress the history of music as well as theory so that my students will have a strong background. Making the lessons fun is the goal I have for every lesson I teach even with students who have a strong focus on playing at a more advanced level. It is also never too late to start! Everyone no matter their background or their perceived self-limitations, can have a life that includes the amazing world of music. I look forward to speaking with anyone who is interested in piano lessons themselves or lessons for their child.

My Home Studio

    Here are a few pictures of my home music studio. I have an upright piano, a full-sized 88-key Kawai digital piano with weighted action and an eMac with Finale, a musical notation program I can use to create music assignments or allow my students to bring to realization their own compositions!


studio pic 1

studio pic 2

studio pic 3




Serving Wellington, Palm Beach Gardens
and Boca Raton

phone: (561) 333-0644
email: michaelbies@yahoo.com

bio          compositions          performance          lessons          teaching philosophy