Piano Lessons for All Ages That Inspire!
A Matter of Discovery
At every age, I encourage discovery and accomplishment in my students. Talent becomes artistry, interest becomes a lifelong passion, discipline leads to transformation. Some students will progress towards professional careers while others will continue on a recreational basis. Either way, all of my students will have made music their own, will be able to make music with others, and will have the means to express ideas and emotions that are too deep for words alone. Music uplifts the soul, and is a tremendous healing gift. The more it is practiced, especially with others, the more it inspires. Nothing compares with the sheer joy of making music, and the lasting companionship that results is priceless. A rich and fun experience of music from the very beginning, taught with enthusiasm and love, is foundational.
Fundamentals
Foundations of music are best established through the exploration of all styles, including the special interests of the student, supported by the development of supple and free technique, and enhanced by instruction in improvisation and composition. This comprehensive approach allows the student to fully experience the joy of music that emerges as the student gains confidence through success, artistry through dedication, and delight in a caring and fun learning environment. Whether pursuing music recreationally, or towards a professional career, the student is well prepared to succeed, and music becomes companion to a life well lived.
Studio Routine and Policy
Weekly lessons are offered in 30, 45 and 60 minute intervals depending on the age, desire and level of the student.
Winter and Spring Recitals provide vital performance opportunities, while one or two music theory parties each year are designed to foster community among students while reinforcing musical concepts. Occasional age appropriate field trips will be scheduled as they become available.
Lesson Fees are $35 per half-hour, $53 per forty-five minutes, and $70 per hour. This fee also includes participation in student recitals, theory parties and other events offered throughout the year. Monthly payment is due at the beginning of each month.
Music and materials are purchased at additional cost.
Daily home practice is essential for student success, and is expected. Parental involvement in home practice is crucial. Please help your child establish and stick with a practice routine, and see that practice time is free of distractions. If you are the parent of an elementary age student, plan to sit with your child for at least a portion of each practice session.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can my child approach daily practice in a busy life? With parental support, I will help the student explore long term interests and aspirations, which in turn will determine a daily practice routine. Consistent, daily practice, organized around achievable, progressive goals will result in the student’s growing musicianship and accomplishment. The art of practicing thus becomes routine, with success as the reward.
Why does my child need an acoustic piano? The piano is a percussion instrument. A look inside reveals that keys work like a see-saw. When the key is depressed, the escapement mechanism allows the hammer to release from the rest of the action to strike, and then immediately fall away from the strings. This process provides physical sensation to the pianist, who is able to manipulate the release of the hammer through supple and free technique, providing a direct influence on interpretation, including dynamics, tone color and voicing. There is simply no way to replicate the acoustic piano’s mechanics in an electronic instrument, and thus no way to practice good piano technique. The whole effect of the real thing: harp, strings, hammer, will be a more compelling and motivating experience for the student.
Can my child learn two instruments simultaneously? Students who have a significant interest and commitment to learning an additional instrument can certainly succeed at both. The experience of playing one instrument will help in learning the other, as well as provide additional opportunities to engage in both solo and ensemble performance. The pairing of piano with an orchestral or band instrument is not uncommon, and provides the student with a particularly full and rewarding experience.