FAQ

Do I need a piano to start with?

If you have a piano or are able to acquire one great!  If not, a keyboard with at least 61 keys is fine to start with.  The keyboard MUST be touch sensitive which means that when you press lightly on the keys it sounds soft and when you press down hard on the key it sounds loud.  If your child sticks with piano for a year then you will need to either purchase a real piano or a digital one. 

Do you host student recitals?

Yes, there will be at least one recital a year; a winter and/or spring recital.

Do you teach piano from a piano curriculum?

Yes. Faber and Faber "Piano Adventures" and Alfred's "Basic Piano Library" through Level 3.  

How often should my child practice between lessons?

At least 5 days a week. It is extremely important to instill healthy practicing habits in your children. I suggest setting aside a daily scheduled time for your child to practice.  Practicing needs to be incorporated into their daily routine and not treated as an afterthought or something to get around to when everything else gets done.  They need to know that practicing piano is just as important as completing their schoolwork.  It is crucial for parents to set this expectation up from the very beginning.    Most of the children who do end up losing interest in piano and eventually quitting are the ones who never really developed strong practicing habits to begin with.

How long should my child practice? How many minutes a day?

It depends on the age and level of instruction. Beginner students should practice each assigned song 3-5 times a day (however many minutes that is) whereas more advanced students will require more time. Practicing purposefully is the key! In the beginning they will be at the piano for just a few minutes a day practicing their songs as well as studying musical terms and notes which will gradually and naturally increase to 30-45 minutes a day as their music gets more demanding.  

Is there a way to make practicing a bit more fun?

Practicing is the major part of playing well but that it need not be boring.  Students may play their songs an octave higher or lower than written.  They can play them with different dynamic signs, at different tempos, with the pedal, in a different key, or on an electric keyboard (if they have one) where they can select different instrumental voices and rhythm sequences to play along with.  They can sing the words to their music if there are lyrics.  If you, the parent, plays or have played piano in the past you can play the teacher part at the bottom of the lesson page as your child plays their part to create a duet.  Ultimately your child will need to master their lesson songs with the musical elements in place but apart from practicing correctly they can still have fun with the instrument.