What kind of students do you teach?
I have taught all kinds of students - from the mediocre to the very talented, from slightly autistic to those with ADD/ADHD, from 4-year-olds to 98-year olds! I have also taught all levels, from beginning to advanced. I individualize my teaching with each student to go at their own pace and inspire them to love music. Many of my students are classical music lovers, but they also like pop, jazz, and a variety of other genres, which I include in my teaching.
When will my child be ready for piano lessons?
If your child shows an interest in music, now is the time! It is better to feed that hunger for creativity than to let it die out. For a very young child, the most important part of lessons is learning to love music. Classes such as Musikgarten or Kindermusik are wonderful for toddlers and preschoolers until they are ready for individual piano lessons.
I have started numerous 4-year-olds on their first piano adventure. I do like to meet with the student and parent(s) first to make sure the child is ready for lessons and that we are a good fit. The basic prerequisites are knowing numbers 1 through 5 and letters A through G, and also being able to focus their attention for 10 minutes at a time. That doesn’t necessarily mean sitting still, because 4 and 5-year-olds need to move! The student also needs to have a piano, or at least a keyboard, available for daily practice.
I use a wonderful series of method books designed specifically for very young beginners. Concepts are introduced a step at a time with materials that are fun and not overwhelming. I teach with enthusiasm and patience, and I play many duets with my students so they can learn by example as well as by explanation. The books also include CDs or links to download the music so kids can play along with the recorded music at home.
I also use accelerated learning books designed for teenagers, as well as an excellent series for beginning adults. As students progress, I add supplementary books/music according to their needs or desires.
I have started numerous 4-year-olds on their first piano adventure. I do like to meet with the student and parent(s) first to make sure the child is ready for lessons and that we are a good fit. The basic prerequisites are knowing numbers 1 through 5 and letters A through G, and also being able to focus their attention for 10 minutes at a time. That doesn’t necessarily mean sitting still, because 4 and 5-year-olds need to move! The student also needs to have a piano, or at least a keyboard, available for daily practice.
I use a wonderful series of method books designed specifically for very young beginners. Concepts are introduced a step at a time with materials that are fun and not overwhelming. I teach with enthusiasm and patience, and I play many duets with my students so they can learn by example as well as by explanation. The books also include CDs or links to download the music so kids can play along with the recorded music at home.
I also use accelerated learning books designed for teenagers, as well as an excellent series for beginning adults. As students progress, I add supplementary books/music according to their needs or desires.
Do I need to buy a piano?
You definitely need an instrument to practice on! A decent acoustic piano is the best for developing good technique and being able to play with beautiful musical expression. My recommendation would be, if possible, to start out with a real piano from the very beginning. The finer the piano, the better it will respond to your touch, the better it will sound, and the more you will enjoy playing it and be apt to keep up with piano studies. If students have to “fight the instrument” to try to make a poor quality instrument do what they want it to, they will become frustrated and discouraged without even knowing why. It is also important to keep the piano tuned annually.
In today’s world, some students do start out with a keyboard and buy a piano later as they advance in their musical studies. If you are buying a keyboard or digital piano, be sure to get one that meets the following criteria (listed in order of importance):
I would be glad to give you suggestions on where to get a piano or keyboard, as well as referrals to piano technicians. Just ask me!
In today’s world, some students do start out with a keyboard and buy a piano later as they advance in their musical studies. If you are buying a keyboard or digital piano, be sure to get one that meets the following criteria (listed in order of importance):
- a full keyboard of 88 keys, or as close to that many as you can afford
- touch-sensitive keys, so they will play louder or softer depending on how you press the key
- a sustain pedal, or at least a place to plug one in
- weighted keys, so they feel a little more like piano keys
I would be glad to give you suggestions on where to get a piano or keyboard, as well as referrals to piano technicians. Just ask me!
How much should I practice?
Consistent, daily practice leads to good progress. Subjects in school, such as math, reading, etc., are studied and practiced almost every day, and this consistency is what develops your skill. Playing a sport well also takes frequent practice. If you are a basketball player, for example, how often and how many times do you practice shooting a basket before you can score with almost every shot? The same holds true with practicing an instrument.
The best way to ensure consistent practice is to set up a routine. Pick a time of day when you are available, alert, and can focus well. Make an appointment with your piano at that time each day, and be sure to show up!
A general rule of thumb is to practice each day the same length of time as your piano lesson. If you take a 60-minute lesson, practice an hour a day; for a 45-minute lesson, practice 45 minutes a day; for a 30-minute lesson, practice 30 minutes a day. Very young children might want to split a 10 to 20-minute practice into two sessions, such as 5-10 minutes in the morning and 5-10 minutes in the afternoon. Any student who wishes to practice for a longer period of time is more than welcome to do so! Just don’t plan on skipping two days of practice and then trying to make it up by tripling your time on the following day! It’s better to practice just 5-10 minutes on a really busy day than to neglect it entirely.
Remember, too, that your most important practice session is immediately after you get home from your piano lesson. You don’t have to make it a long practice, but the purpose is to review everything you learned in your lesson so you will remember what to do while you’re practicing the next day and the rest of the week.
How you practice is even more important than how long you practice. You will learn the tricks to successful practicing from your teacher. If you follow her instructions, you will produce the results you want in less than half the time!
The best way to ensure consistent practice is to set up a routine. Pick a time of day when you are available, alert, and can focus well. Make an appointment with your piano at that time each day, and be sure to show up!
A general rule of thumb is to practice each day the same length of time as your piano lesson. If you take a 60-minute lesson, practice an hour a day; for a 45-minute lesson, practice 45 minutes a day; for a 30-minute lesson, practice 30 minutes a day. Very young children might want to split a 10 to 20-minute practice into two sessions, such as 5-10 minutes in the morning and 5-10 minutes in the afternoon. Any student who wishes to practice for a longer period of time is more than welcome to do so! Just don’t plan on skipping two days of practice and then trying to make it up by tripling your time on the following day! It’s better to practice just 5-10 minutes on a really busy day than to neglect it entirely.
Remember, too, that your most important practice session is immediately after you get home from your piano lesson. You don’t have to make it a long practice, but the purpose is to review everything you learned in your lesson so you will remember what to do while you’re practicing the next day and the rest of the week.
How you practice is even more important than how long you practice. You will learn the tricks to successful practicing from your teacher. If you follow her instructions, you will produce the results you want in less than half the time!
Do I have to play in recitals?
The joy of music is one that is even better when shared. Why do you think so many people go to concerts? Performances give students an opportunity to work towards the goal of perfecting a piece of music to the best of their ability, to share their music with others as a vehicle of self-expression (or to just plain show off!), and to become inspired by listening to other performers.
I try to put my students at ease in performing by throwing three "piano parties" during the school year that are more informal, less intimidating, and lots of fun! The first two include their families and friends. Each party has its own theme and kind of music, but students always have the option of performing their own selections--for example, a piece of classical music (or other genre) they have been working diligently on.
In October we have a Halloween Piano Party. Students have the option of dressing up in costumes. We perform lots of spooky Halloween music or music in a minor key. Alternately, students may play jazz, pop, movie themes, or any other music of their choice. Prizes and treats are a must! My "witch's brew" is always a favorite!
In December the Holiday Sing-Along has everyone at the party singing along as students play holiday music (from any culture or religion). This gives students a chance to "accompany" the singers, and everyone has fun! It is followed by a potluck dinner (if we are in a student's home) or potluck treats (if we are in a recital hall).
In March the St. Patty's Piano Party gives us a chance to play some musical games for prizes and perform a little Irish music along with any other selections. And treats, of course! This party is held in my home, so there is not room for the whole family. The youngest students may bring a parent along.
Students who have participated in these piano parties usually become comfortable with performing and are actually eager to perform in the the more formal Recital in June. I split my students between two recitals so the performers and audience don't have to sit there for hours!
In all my performance events I play a lot of duets with my students, especially the younger ones. This not only makes their music sound better, but it supports them and gives them more confidence. I also put students together with other musicians (especially their siblings, parents, or friends) to perform duets, trios, or other ensemble work.
So finally, to answer your question, I do encourage all my students to perform. If they participate in the piano parties, they will have less qualms about performing in a recital, a talent show, a festival, a competition, or simply for their friends and family. Some adult beginners are squeamish about playing for others until they find out how much fun we have! I do cut them some slack and let them wait until they are ready.
I try to put my students at ease in performing by throwing three "piano parties" during the school year that are more informal, less intimidating, and lots of fun! The first two include their families and friends. Each party has its own theme and kind of music, but students always have the option of performing their own selections--for example, a piece of classical music (or other genre) they have been working diligently on.
In October we have a Halloween Piano Party. Students have the option of dressing up in costumes. We perform lots of spooky Halloween music or music in a minor key. Alternately, students may play jazz, pop, movie themes, or any other music of their choice. Prizes and treats are a must! My "witch's brew" is always a favorite!
In December the Holiday Sing-Along has everyone at the party singing along as students play holiday music (from any culture or religion). This gives students a chance to "accompany" the singers, and everyone has fun! It is followed by a potluck dinner (if we are in a student's home) or potluck treats (if we are in a recital hall).
In March the St. Patty's Piano Party gives us a chance to play some musical games for prizes and perform a little Irish music along with any other selections. And treats, of course! This party is held in my home, so there is not room for the whole family. The youngest students may bring a parent along.
Students who have participated in these piano parties usually become comfortable with performing and are actually eager to perform in the the more formal Recital in June. I split my students between two recitals so the performers and audience don't have to sit there for hours!
In all my performance events I play a lot of duets with my students, especially the younger ones. This not only makes their music sound better, but it supports them and gives them more confidence. I also put students together with other musicians (especially their siblings, parents, or friends) to perform duets, trios, or other ensemble work.
So finally, to answer your question, I do encourage all my students to perform. If they participate in the piano parties, they will have less qualms about performing in a recital, a talent show, a festival, a competition, or simply for their friends and family. Some adult beginners are squeamish about playing for others until they find out how much fun we have! I do cut them some slack and let them wait until they are ready.
No need to stop piano lessons! Have you recently injured your arm, hand, wrist, or finger? This situation offers you a unique opportunity to develop your other hand while the injured one is healing!
Take advantage of this chance to really focus on just one hand. Improve your technique and learn some new repertoire. I have several delightful piano pieces at all levels that are designed to be played with one hand alone. You can continue to practice, take lessons, and even perform! Astound your listeners with the beauty, musicality, robustness, or fluidity of your performance. They won't believe you're only playing with one hand!
This is also a good time to focus on music theory, music history, ear training, composing, and listening to music.
So find the silver lining in that dark cloud of injury. Soon you will be healed, and the sun will be shining on your improved musical skills!
Take advantage of this chance to really focus on just one hand. Improve your technique and learn some new repertoire. I have several delightful piano pieces at all levels that are designed to be played with one hand alone. You can continue to practice, take lessons, and even perform! Astound your listeners with the beauty, musicality, robustness, or fluidity of your performance. They won't believe you're only playing with one hand!
This is also a good time to focus on music theory, music history, ear training, composing, and listening to music.
So find the silver lining in that dark cloud of injury. Soon you will be healed, and the sun will be shining on your improved musical skills!