Keano Ritchie

I adopt a flexible and student-centered approach to piano teaching, recognizing that each learner has unique strengths, preferences, and goals. My lessons balance traditional methods, such as learning through sheet music and structured technical exercises, with more creative approaches, including learning by ear and improvisation. This hybrid style allows students to build a strong technical foundation while also developing their own musical voice.

Lessons typically begin with scales, chords, and other fundamental skills, carefully tailored to the student’s current level. While I recommend that students complete a short warm-up beforehand to maximize lesson time, I always ensure that technical work remains purposeful and directly connected to the music they enjoy playing.

A core principle of my teaching is to make repertoire engaging and relevant. Rather than assigning pieces solely for their difficulty or tradition, I encourage students to explore music that genuinely interests them—whether that is classical works, contemporary songs, jazz standards, or music from films and games. This approach helps students remain motivated and ensures that progress feels rewarding and meaningful.

In addition to technical development and repertoire study, I draw on my own background as a performer in both solo and ensemble settings. I provide practical insights into stage presence, musical interpretation, and ensemble collaboration, equipping students with skills that extend beyond the lesson room. My experience in live performance and band settings enables me to guide students not only in playing accurately, but also in communicating musically and performing with confidence.

My overarching goal is to nurture well-rounded musicians who enjoy the process of learning as much as the results. Whether a student aims to pursue piano at an advanced level, to accompany themselves in a more casual setting, or simply to experience the joy of making music, I tailor my teaching to support their aspirations while fostering independence, creativity, and lifelong enjoyment of the piano.