Lessons
What You Need to Know
Lessons are taught in my home near Franklin Blvd and Pinebush Rd in Cambridge, Ontario
The year is divided in 4 terms
Term 1: September through December
Term 2: January through March
Term 3: April through June
Term 4: July- August
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the right age to start piano lessons? Students 5 and up may enroll in piano lessons, depending on their readiness.
What kind of piano do I need? An 88 keys piano that is tuned at least once a year. I will be happy to recommend a piano technician to you so you can have your piano tuned when is needed. A keyboard is acceptable if it meets the following requirements: 88 keys, touch sensitive, weighted keys Sustain/damper pedal Bench of an appropriate height Keyboard stand (not a table or desk) Located in an area of the home that promotes consistent practice.
What will I learn and how much should I practice? Lessons are tailored specifically to each student's individual needs and goals and include a variety of activities such as: Reading music. Playing music from different styles, including classical, pop, country, praise and worship, jazz, etc! Understanding music theory, sight-reading, ear training, harmonization. Composing simple songs. Using technology to enhance lessons and practice time. Learning and reviewing through hands-on games and other activities. Learning to practice efficiently so students can become independent musicians. Most of all, lessons are structured to be enjoyed and to have fun. Practicing piano is like other homework that expected to be done daily. Students should practice at least 5 days a week for: • 5-7 years old: 15-20 minutes • 8-10 years old: 20-30 minutes • 11-14 years old: 30-40 minutes • 15 and older: 40-60 minutes Students should keep record of their daily practice on their My Music Staff Account. A timer is a good piece of equipment to place on your piano. A floor or piano lamp protects your vision. If the student's feet don’t reach to the floor, a footstool is necessary. Progress does not happen in one weekly 30 minute lesson. Work and practice outside of lessons are necessary for growth.
How many lessons should I take per week? Students typically take one or two lessons weekly. Lessons option include 30-minute lessons, 40-minute lessons and hour lessons. 30-minute lessons are generally suggested for first and second year students, and once students reach their third year, they are usually ready for 40-minute lessons. Lessons are available 6 days a week, Monday through Saturday subject to availability.
What is included in the tuition fee? The tuition fee rents an exclusive time slot for the student for the entire school year. This payment includes much more than the lesson time spent with each student: 1.Your weekly lesson spot. 2.Your My Music Staff Student-Parent Account administrative fees. 3.Lesson preparation, creating worksheets and games. 4.My professional experience and continuing education. 5.Piano studio equipment. 6.Website fees and maintenance. 7.Memberships in professional organizations that provide educational opportunities for teachers. 8.Sight-reading and lending library materials. 9.Administrative duties. And so much more! Two payment options are available to choose from for your convenience: -Monthly payment. -Payment for the Full Term. (Students that pay for the full term receive a 5% discount).
Piano Books
The Faber Piano Adventures is my regular, go-to series because it serves the majority of students in the best way. Randall and Nancy Faber combined the “Learning with ACE” (analysis, creativity, and expression) principles in this method. Their philosophy embraces highly integrated right and left-brain modes of teaching, learning, and experiencing pianistic sound.
Click the button below to explore the different levels and use this guide when it's time to buy new books. They can be purchased on Amazon or at any music store. For questions about other method books or general repertoire please, contact me.