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Why take piano lessons?

So many people ask: Why take lessons?  Where do students use this experience? 
Here are some things that come to mind from my work with all ages of students:

• Some students study toward Royal Conservatory of Music Exams
• Some take the skills they have learned and transfer them to study other instruments
• Band and Choral programs in elementary and high schools benefit from the training that students recieve from private lessons
• Some students take the skills they have learned and become teachers themselves
• All students gain a sense of musical literacy and are able to transfer those skills to whatever style of music they enjoy, whether pop, jazz, classical, hip-hop or world music
• Studying classical music gives students a background in music history, and helps gain a greater understanding of our culture, arts and historical events
• Music study creates a generation of supporters of the arts, symphony programs, and other cultural events
• Students gain comfort in performing for a group, a skill which can be transferred to many areas of life and business
• Taking lessons creates a love of music; playing for fun and relaxation, sharing music for the joy of it, and embracing a journey that lasts a lifetime!

Studio Policy Letter

Weekly Lessons

Piano or Organ

A private lesson of 30 to 45 minutes or an hour which covers instruction in basic to advanced techniques of piano or organ playing (including knowledge of the instrument); review of current repertoire pieces, discussions of historical or contemporary connotations, creative presentation, and basic harmonic and melodic structure in relationship to those pieces.  The study of rhythmic skills, reading skills and aural development is undertaken on a continuing basis at all levels of study.

Theory

The study of musical notation, continuing with the building blocks of musical structure, is taught in conjunction with the piano lesson.  This includes music rudiments and preparation for Royal Conservatory theory examinations.

Goals

The goal is to provide and enjoy a musical experience in which each student can feel positive about his/her own development both technically and creatively.

Materials

All students use age, interest and ability appropriate books.  The course of study as outlined by the Royal Conservatory of music (whose graded books cover music from all periods and include many works by Canadian and contemporary composers) provide an excellent vehicle for the study of piano; however, consideration is given for individual ability and preference when choosing repertoire pieces.  Students are encouraged to use their own creative instincts as we explore the interpretation of this material.

Students/parents supply a number of books throughout the year, depending on the level of study.

Students should come to each lesson with a notebook, music books and a three ring binder.  Organ students should also bring shoes appropriate for pedal work.  A book bag is useful for keeping music books organized and in good condition.

Exams and Festival

I look forward to preparing students for Royal Conservatory exams and for participation in festivals.  This is an excellent opportunity to receive further evaluation and certification for the diligence that you apply to your music studies.

Recitals

I encourage students who are taking exams or playing in festivals to participate in the Registered Music Teacher’s recitals that are held at opportune times throughout the year.  I hold a year-end recital for all my students, and an invitation is extended to families.

Lesson Term

The term consists of 36 lessons commencing in early September.  Exam students may have several extra lessons to continue to the date of their exam.

Infrequently I find it necessary to reschedule lesson times.  I endeavour to make up lesson missed due to illness.  If lessons are discontinued, I would like the consideration of one month’s notice or one month’s fees in lieu of notice.

Fee Schedule

Please email for more information

Lessons Are a Three Way Responsibility

PARENT                  TEACHER               STUDENT

Parents – your part is:

 

1. TO CHOOSE THE BEST TEACHER
   Ensure a solid foundation for your child’s musical education by choosing the best teacher available.  Very young children (4 to 6 years of age) should be entrusted only to a teacher who has had special training and/or experience in teaching this age group.
   
   
2. TO COOPERATE
   Be aware of weekly assignments.  See that they are completed.  Occasional parent-teacher conferences are invaluable, but these should not be held in the presence of the child.  Report any change in attitude.  Attend an occasional lesson.
   
   
3. TO KEEP INSTRUMENTS IN GOOD CONDITION
   Keep your piano in tune and any instrument in good repair at all times. Failure to do so will cause untold damage to the child’s musical ear and to their morale.
   
   
   
4. TO ENCOURAGE LISTENING
   Give your child every available opportunity of hearing all kinds of music.  You can help them.
   
   
   
5. TO SUPERVISE PRACTICE
   Set aside definite periods of the day for practice.  Practice is “homework” too.  For small children, short periods are preferable to one long one.  Supervision is all-important
   
   
6. ENCOURAGE PERFOMANCE
   Encourage your child to participate in recitals, festivals etc… and to perform at home for family and friends.  When he/she does so express appreciation and praise.
   
   
7. TO USE GOOD JUDGEMENT
   Careful selection and limiting of extra-curricular activity prevents undue tension and allows for greater progress in selected studies.
   
   
8. TO AVOID UNETHICAL PRACTICE
   Discuss problems with present teacher before approaching a new teacher.
   
   
9. TO ENCOURAGE REGULAR ATTENDANCE AT LESSONS
   A missed lesson hinders progress.  A child who has not practiced needs a lesson more than ever, to re-inspire him/her and help them correct old mistakes and avoid new ones.

SHOW YOUR CHILD THAT HIS/HER MUSICAL PROGRESS IS IMPORTANT!

CFMTA Conference 2011

July 2011 marks my first National Music Teacher's Conference, and the beginning of my music blog.  As a music educator for many years, I hope that my thoughts and experiences may help my readers and my students to share in the great excitement and love I have for music and creating.  At the recent national conference of the Canadian Federation of Music Teacher's Association, aptly named, "Music Is A Life Force", I was overwhelmed and inspired by the committment to quality music education around the country.
I continue to learn and grow as a musician, artist and educator, and more than ever, I hope that as I travel my musical journey I will learn to make music more accessible for all, whether classically trained musicians or those with little or no experience playing.

Find out more about CFMTA:

http://www.cfmta.org/