Traditional Piano Lessons
Piano Studio Information
“ When love and skill combine, expect a miracle.“
Philosophy
I believe that ALL students can be successful in learning and playing a musical instrument and deserve to receive quality instruction in a warm, encouraging atmosphere.
I strongly believe that musical study deserves to play an important role in your life. While everyone understands how beautiful music is, not all know the many benefits that serious study of music can have on student’s intelligence, ability to concentrate, and development of self discipline. In addition, music can add a joy and enrichment to your child throughout his/her entire life.
Listening
I would like to encourage you to expose your child to recordings of classical and other beautiful music. I can give you suggestions if you need some guidance. I would encourage you to help your child acquire a playlist of his/her own library of classical and especially piano music. (These are great for birthday and Christmas gifts) it is especially meaningful to hear recordings of pieces they are learning.
I would also like to encourage you to attend musical concerts with your child when possible. Our valley is blessed with a wealth of musical concerts, many of which are quite affordable. Southern Oregon University offers many affordable classical concerts each month. I will give each of you a monthly calendar of suggested upcoming concerts. Attending concerts with your child can become a special joy that each of you will cherish.
Piano Lessons
Private lessons include classical and contemporary piano repertoire, technical studies, ear training, music theory, rhythm studies, sight-reading and some composition. Each student can prepare a program of musical pieces that can be performed at home, church, talent shows or any other gatherings. Each student will be invited to perform prepared pieces at our annual piano recital in the spring.
- Weekly Lessons
Students will receive one 30 –minute lesson each week. Please come on time. If late, the student will receive the lesson only for the remainder of the lesson time. - Payment
Half hour lessons are $25.00 per lesson. 45minute lessons are $37.50 per lesson. Please take note of the new lesson price. Payment for the whole month is due on the first lesson day of the month, unless other arrangements have been made. - Missed Lessons
When you reserve a time with me, it means that I rely on you to be there and cannot schedule someone else for that time slot. If I am notified in advance, I will give a credit for missed lessons due to illness and if you are out of town. Payment is expected for other missed lessons. * Not practicing is NOT a reason to cancel a lesson. If your child hasn’t practiced, a good review lesson is very important. Lesson consistency is very important to your child’s progress. - Lesson Books and Music
*Please write your child’s name in each book and on each piece of music. The helps me know who to call if a book is left behind.
-
- Your child’s assignments are written in his/her notebook each week. Please make sure your child brings this notebook to each lesson.
- Please obtain a large tote or bag to hold your child’s music. This helps avoid lost music.
- Please be sure your child brings his/her music to each lesson. Lost music slows progress significantly.
Evaluations
Beginning this year, I will give parents a periodic evaluation of your child’s progress so that you know how he/she is progressing and may make recommendations for improvements. Always feel free to call or email me with any concerns. Please note that due to a waiting list of students, excessive missed lessons and consistent failure to practice, may result in being dismissed as a student if the problem cannot be resolved.
I want you to know that I deem it a privilege to teach your child to play the piano, and to learn to appreciate and to love music. I am looking forward again to another wonderful year with your child.
Practice
Daily practice is the MOST IMPORTANT part of learning to play a musical instrument. Your child’s progress will depend on the amount and quality of daily practice. It is best to set up a practice plan at the beginning of the year and follow through in a positive, encouraging way. A set time is very helpful, i.e. practice before or after school, before dinner or after dinner. It is important to provide a quiet atmosphere, which allows the student to fully concentrate on the practice.