Welcome! My name is Alison Cheroff. I teach pianists how to overcome their pains and limitations and to play with ease. When a pianist coordinates their movements with themselves and the musical score, they are unhindered and free. They are able to make music joyfully.
I am a Taubman-trained teacher and pianist living in the Upper Valley Region of Vermont, close to Dartmouth College and two hours from Boston. In my studio (in person or on-line), all are encouraged to reach their highest musical potential--from the beginner to the concert artist.
I help pianists with these issues (see testimonials):
I am a Taubman-trained teacher and pianist living in the Upper Valley Region of Vermont, close to Dartmouth College and two hours from Boston. In my studio (in person or on-line), all are encouraged to reach their highest musical potential--from the beginner to the concert artist.
I help pianists with these issues (see testimonials):
- Tendonitis
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Musical limitations
- Technical limitations and insecurity
- Upper arm, neck or back pain
- Fatigue
- Tension
- “Repetitive Stress Disorder”
- Shaking fingers
- Dystonia
Examples of Areas of Study with Sample Video Links:
- The basic healthy position of the fingers, hand, wrist, forearm and upper arm. Alternatives to "holding a position in the hand" such as "holding a ball", which tightens the hand and arm
- Why exercises often do more harm than good.
- Forearm movements that unify and prevent stretching and isolating the fingers http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xkc4Uz387kc
- The myth of the weak 4th finger and pinky
- The importance of supported knuckles and fulcrums
- Seating height and leverage http://www.wellbalancedpianist.com/
- Why "relaxation" may cause pain and problems
- The alternatives to twisting and disconnecting the wrists http://www.youtube.com/watchv=2H3O0AyvJm8&list=PL2294E182225E210A
- Walking arm, shaping, and in and out movements http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aBeONQYqAE0
- Speed in octave playing http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qwY-pDnmSiE
- Staccato: plucking without curling back the fingers
- Playing to the point of sound, rather than "digging" into the keys
- Coordinate use of the thumb http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SvQPBGvoVNA
- Fingering to prevent stretching, isolating and crowding
- Repeated notes without tension
In person or online lessons: If you are a concert pianist, a teacher or beginning or intermediate student, I can help you with your teaching and your playing. Whether it is working out a complicated passage or learning how to play the very first note with ease, I will enjoy sharing my knowledge--and my patience--with you.
For lessons, please contact me at: 802-436-6572
e-mail: acheroffpiano@gmail.com
"Pain and insecurity are almost always a symptom of incoordination--rather than a lack of practicing, muscle strength, talent or intelligence--and can be permanently solved with know-how and skill." Dorothy Taubman
For lessons, please contact me at: 802-436-6572
e-mail: acheroffpiano@gmail.com
"Pain and insecurity are almost always a symptom of incoordination--rather than a lack of practicing, muscle strength, talent or intelligence--and can be permanently solved with know-how and skill." Dorothy Taubman