q for Jenn: piano lessons

I am interested in learning, hence the following question: Does the
academic 
literature indicate any genuine advances in teaching techniques? The music

lesson business has always been clouded by gimmickry, which I am unable to

see through. What should I look for?

My hands have rather limited spread, and my aspirations are limited; I 
simply want to be able to hear my musical thoughts. Perhaps I might do
some 
new-age fiddling with composition.

Bob Morein
(310) 237-6511