Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about piano lessons:
Q: What approach or method do you use?
A: I teach with a sound-before-symbol approach, and use many different methods and materials. Please contact me for more details.
Q: How old should my child be to start piano lessons?
A: Lesson readiness varies from child to child, however, students as young as 3 years old may be ready for play based, age-appropriate lessons.
Q: Do you do recitals?
A: Yes, there are two studio recitals a year—one in the fall and one in the spring.
Q: Do you teach adults?
A: Yes! I love teaching adults, including beginners. It’s never too late to start piano lessons!
Q: How much do lessons cost?
A: Details are available in my Studio Policy. Please contact me for more details.
Q: Do students need a piano or can they use a keyboard or electric piano?
A: An in-tune, acoustic piano is a must. I strongly advise against purchasing an electric piano, even one with touch-sensitive, weighted keys, because they have far less sensitivity than an acoustic instrument. There are often used acoustic pianos available for the same price that will work as a suitable instrument for a beginner. I have had great success finding reasonably priced pianos for my students.
Q: How much do students need to practice?
Regular practice is essential to a student’s progress and enjoyment in piano. Please check out my Piano Practice handout.
Q: How do I get started?
A: Below are the different kinds of lessons I offer. I recommend a preliminary meeting before starting lessons, so I can go over my approach and policies, and answer any questions you may have. Please contact me to set up a meeting.
Pre-K/K Piano
Pre-K/Kindergarten piano lessons, for children ages 3-5, are play-based and include singing, movement, and piano activities. All activities are designed to develop core musical skills and foster a love of music. Both group and private lesson options are available.
Group Piano (1st grade and up)
In small group piano lessons, students learn from each other, gain confidence by regularly playing for one another, and inspire each other on their piano journeys. Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about my group piano lessons:
How long are group lessons? What activities are included?
Group lessons are 60 or 75 minutes. Core musical ability is developed through group ear training and music reading activities for the first part of the lesson. During the remainder of the lesson students take turns receiving one-on-one instruction while the other students work on focused projects.
How many students are in a group?
Groups are small, with a maximum of 4 students for 75-minute lessons, or 3 students for 60-minute lessons.
Do you have a keyboard lab setup?
No. One of the main benefits of group instruction is that students learn by listening to each other play.
What is the age range for group lessons? Are they just for young children?
I offer 60 and 75-minute group lessons for elementary, middle school and high school students. Both age and level are considered when grouping students. Approximate groupings by year in school: grades 2-4, grades 3-5, grades 5-8, and grades 8-12.
Private Piano
I offer a variety of private lesson options: 30-minutes, 45-minutes, or 60-minutes. Private lessons are only available during certain limited timeslots.