Weekly lessons may include technical exercises, improvisation, arranging, music theory, music history, ear training, sight reading, sight singing, and repertoire study.
Lesson Format >
Lesson Length: 30, 45, and 60 minutes. Teacher and student/parent will work together to determine the ideal lesson length for the student.
Student Levels and Ages: Lessons are offered to students ages four and older of all levels, beginning to advanced. Lessons are taught at the individual student's level, and progress is tailored to the rate at which the student is most benefited.
Performance Classes for Pre-College-Age Students: Five times a year, performance classes are given in lieu of individual lessons. Students of comparable age and level get together and play for each other. Students learn to listen critically and give constructive feedback. Class time is also used to explore various aspects of music including interpretation, history, theory, and repertoire.
Performance Opportunities >
Performance Opportunities: For the benefit of playing and hearing live music, students participate in performance classes and at yearly at assessment, master class, and recital. Students at all levels of skill are given the option of performing regularly at local retirement communities.
Assessment: Once a year, students participate in The Royal Conservatory Music Development Program. This program provides a recognized national standard of musical success through an effectively sequenced course of study from beginner to advance levels. The Music Development Program inspires excellence through individual student assessments and allows students to celebrate accomplishment and track their progress with others across the country. Students are assessed on technical exercises, ear training, sight reading, and repertoire performance.
Master Class: High school students are given the additional opportunity to play in and learn from a master class. Master class is a public performance in which a guest teacher gives the performer feedback in the form of a mini-lesson.
Parent's Role >
Parental Involvement: Parental involvement is highly encouraged. This may include attending lessons, monitoring home practice, listening to recordings, and actively exposing the student to appropriate cultural activities in the community.
Parents should provide:
- An acoustic instrument kept in tune and in good repair.
- A practice setting free from distractions.
- Parental supervision of all practice periods for beginners.
- Encouragement, support, and appreciation for the student's efforts.
- Consistent attendance at all lessons and classes.
Payment and Attendance >
Payment: Payments are calculated by the semester. Payments should be brought to the student's first lesson of the semester. The total will include lessons, classes, and recital. A registration/activity fee will be collected in April. The assessment fee will be collected at the time of the test.
Commitment: A non-refundable deposit/activity fee is required to secure the student's enrollment. The fee is due in April (or at the student's initial enrollment) and guarantees the student's spot for the next school year. It also covers the expenses for the studio of assignment books, materials, piano tuning, performance classes, master classes, and recital.
Once the semester has begun, the student is committed until the end of the term. Refunds will only be given in very special circumstances and at the teacher's discretion. Semesters roughly correspond with the school year and a calendar of important dates will be handed out at the first lesson of the year.
Attendance and Cancellations: Once your lesson time has been scheduled, please regard it as permanent for the semester. Cancellations should be communicated as early as possible. Missed lessons will be made up only if cancelled by the teacher.
Books: The teacher is best equipped to select the student's music. The teacher will either advise the student as to what materials should be purchased or will furnish the music for reimbursement.
Practice >
Practice: Successful, satisfying music study is dependent upon consistent, daily practice. The teacher will provide a clear outline of practice strategies for the student to follow at home and will encourage the student to lead thoughtful and effective practices.