Ask Harvey Jacobson, how long he has been teaching piano at the Community Center and his answer is less than precise, 25 or 35 years he isn’t exactly sure. While he can’t determine a specific date, photos taken at the Sosa Center, in the 1970’s attest to his words.

I’ve been around so long, they ought to give me a medal for that. I’m probably one of the few long-term employees this post has seen in some time.”

The enthusiasm and energy he displays when it comes to music and life does not attest to his 71 years. The former Army reservist is effusive about his love of music and the arts.

“It’s always been a priority in my life, I started playing when I was 13, and it is essential to who I am. I love classical. I love big band. I love ragtime and I get so much joy out of playing music; it’s energizing,” said Jacobson.

A certified music therapist, the pianist and composer with three degrees is now working on his doctorate at the University of Maryland. In his career, he has performed at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, the Juilliard School, both concert halls in Carnegie Hall, and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. In addition he has had many television, radio and local performances and recordings featuring the music of Scott Joplin, Edward MacDowell and Thomas “Fats” Waller. Jacobson is also an adjunct faculty member at the Northern Virginia Community College in Alexandria.

His teaching style is filled with patience as he deals with the distracting sounds of arcade games as they filter into the room. “Remember to use your left hand,” he gently urges beginners. But he also finds lessons to challenge advanced students with harder material and asking them to find the right energy when playing a particular piece.

“I like to see the children develop; you can see the dedication in certain students and their willingness to learn. That’s why I teach; I get satisfaction out of the process of helping students to learn how to do something well. Then they can transfer those skills of concentration and memory to their future, and, hopefully, have a more
successful one,” said Jacobson.