ESL/ESOL
As someone who is fluent in a foreign language in addition to English, I am able to explain English grammar in a way that relates to a student's understanding of their first language. I have helped students gain a better understanding of the rules of English grammar and vocabulary, while in some cases improving their knowledge of their own language at the same time. I am a very patient and encouraging tutor.
Music History
I took three full semesters of music history in college, in addition to a semester-long survey course, all with straight 4.0 averages. My term paper about the music of Chopin was commended by the professor and I was invited to present it to the class, even though I was not a music major. I have listened to classical music since my youth, and am familiar with all the major composers and compositions in the history of western classical music.
My main focus of interest and expertise is the Romantic period, particularly piano music (Chopin, Liszt), as I am a pianist myself. Additionally, I have a love for French composers and have done much research into their oeuvre (Debussy, Satie). I deepened my music knowledge while working for a non-profit classical music foundation for eight years. Finally, as a harpsichordist, I am familiar with many of the lesser-known baroque keyboard composers.
Theatre
I received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in theatre performance at a well-recognized university. I have experience performing both in theatre and film, and can coach on the different acting techniques required for each medium. I also have directed plays before, and I will be able to help performers with monologues or group work. I taught theatre games and improvisation to young children, and I also taught technical theatre at the high school level.
In addition to theatre performance and technical theatre, I have a wide knowledge of theatre history and the great works of drama, in addition to the history of theatrical design, costumes, scenery, makeup, and related areas. I can teach theatrical makeup, including special-effect makeup. One of the best things about studying acting and performance is that, even if you do not intend to act in public, your study will give you more self-confidence and assuredness, which I can help you attain.