What lesson length is appropriate for students?
Lessons lengths are determined by each child's needs and concentration abilities. For young children and adult beginners, 30-45 minute lessons weekly are recommended. For students preparing for RCM exams, 45-60 minute lessons weekly are highly required.
Do I need a piano or keyboard?
Choose to purchase a piano or keyboard will depend on what you want to play down the road. To start, an acoustic piano is most ideal. This will help you achieve the correct hand position, strong finger muscles and touch of the piano. It is a long term commitment as you will need the space and tuning maintenance twice a year. For those who does not have the space or finances, a keyboard can be used temporarily. There are also rental options at your local music store. Due to the keys being unweighted and electronically adjusted volume, it can promote some technical habits that might be hard to correct later. An acoustic upright or grand piano is the best choice, especially for students taking RCM exams.
What are your expectations on practicing?
For young learners, they should practise at least 3-5 times a week and complete homework assigned by the teacher to ensure proper advancement and musical development. For students who are preparing for RCM exams Levels 1-4, 30-minute daily practise is required. For Levels 5 and up, 45-60 minutes of daily practise is required.
What methods do I use?
Different methods and approaches are employed to meet the needs of individual musicians. I am constantly in search of cultural and creative resources to inspire my personal learning and also the students. For young beginners, Piano Adventures or Alfred's is fun and engaging while my favourite Bastian's accelerated method is for beginner adults. I also incorporate technology into my lessons, using interactive apps to enhance ear training, rhythm, and theory. For students who are looking to play music for fun, they are encouraged to search for their own resources that are of personal interest to be learned in the lessons. A reward system is also in place to motivate practise!
What are the student expectations?
What are the parents' role in the learning process?
While most students are initially excited to begin piano lessons, please be aware that they will face challenges and sometimes frustrations. As initial enthusiasm is replaced by awareness of the discipline and commitment required to attain excellence, your encouragement and praise will be essential to your child's success.
In addition to this, please:
Useful Links
Concert Pitch Piano Services: Toronto Piano Tuning, Repair & Servicing Company http://www.concertpitchpiano.com
Lessons lengths are determined by each child's needs and concentration abilities. For young children and adult beginners, 30-45 minute lessons weekly are recommended. For students preparing for RCM exams, 45-60 minute lessons weekly are highly required.
Do I need a piano or keyboard?
Choose to purchase a piano or keyboard will depend on what you want to play down the road. To start, an acoustic piano is most ideal. This will help you achieve the correct hand position, strong finger muscles and touch of the piano. It is a long term commitment as you will need the space and tuning maintenance twice a year. For those who does not have the space or finances, a keyboard can be used temporarily. There are also rental options at your local music store. Due to the keys being unweighted and electronically adjusted volume, it can promote some technical habits that might be hard to correct later. An acoustic upright or grand piano is the best choice, especially for students taking RCM exams.
What are your expectations on practicing?
For young learners, they should practise at least 3-5 times a week and complete homework assigned by the teacher to ensure proper advancement and musical development. For students who are preparing for RCM exams Levels 1-4, 30-minute daily practise is required. For Levels 5 and up, 45-60 minutes of daily practise is required.
What methods do I use?
Different methods and approaches are employed to meet the needs of individual musicians. I am constantly in search of cultural and creative resources to inspire my personal learning and also the students. For young beginners, Piano Adventures or Alfred's is fun and engaging while my favourite Bastian's accelerated method is for beginner adults. I also incorporate technology into my lessons, using interactive apps to enhance ear training, rhythm, and theory. For students who are looking to play music for fun, they are encouraged to search for their own resources that are of personal interest to be learned in the lessons. A reward system is also in place to motivate practise!
What are the student expectations?
- Be prepared for lesson (with all books and completed theory or other projects)
- Keep fingernails trimmed short (should not extend past the end of the finger) to ensure proper hand position and good technique
- Wash hands before each lesson
What are the parents' role in the learning process?
While most students are initially excited to begin piano lessons, please be aware that they will face challenges and sometimes frustrations. As initial enthusiasm is replaced by awareness of the discipline and commitment required to attain excellence, your encouragement and praise will be essential to your child's success.
In addition to this, please:
- Set aside a scheduled practice time for your child
- Supervise home practice sessions and sign practice journals, making sure your child completes all assignments
- Provide feedback and suggestions for the teacher that will increase the effectiveness of each lesson
- Play quality music in your home and car
- Ensure that your child is ready to go at their assigned lesson time
Useful Links
Concert Pitch Piano Services: Toronto Piano Tuning, Repair & Servicing Company http://www.concertpitchpiano.com