Piano by Paula Long

My eldest daughter has had piano lessons with Paula Long since 2015. She was an early intermediate when she started lessons with Paula. In that time, with hard work and challenging instruction from Paula, she progressed well and is now an advanced student, well equipped in piano technique, music theory, and the ability to sight read new pieces well and learn challenging pieces with practice. Paula has the wonderful ability to see her student's strengths and weaknesses and the ability to teach to them. She encouraged my daughter in ways that I never could. Mrs. Long was instrumental in developing my daughter's confidence in playing, especially in front of others. Paula chooses various materials and books to help my daughter to both develop confidence and challenge her skills. One of the greatest things she gave my daughter is conversations about music and playing the piano that have helped her develop a deeper love and appreciation for music. They developed a sweet friendship at the piano bench. Although Paula lives in Maxwell, she came to Des Moines to give my daughter lessons on the days she was already in Des Moines. She was a joy to work with in arranging lesson times that worked for both of us. As a homeschooling mom, we have more flexibility than most and that worked to all of our advantages.