We offer piano instruction for Beginners through Teachers ARCT. The lessons are private, although we work with small groups for the young beginners. Children as well as adults are welcome and the lessons are formatted to accommodate the desires of the students. No previous study is necessary. Whether it is following the Royal Conservatory of Music route or learning for personal enjoyment and therapy, we are happy to individualize the music study. Please note: you do require an instrument to practice on between lessons.
Group lessons have numerous benefits, so I currently schedule up to five over the course of a teaching year.
The first lesson of the year is usually a group class where students are grouped with other students that are at their level. It is a great “get acquainted session” and incorporates discussion around the events of the year, the technical requirements and the plans for preparation for the Technique Olympics- Technique Olympics – a competition in technique, sight reading, and ear testing. This event generally takes place in November and replaces regular lessons for that week. (Except for the Monday students)
- Composition competition – (not held every year) – students compete for monetary awards in own composition. Tapping into creativity is rewarding and composing reveals another part of who they are and students often shock themselves with what they’ve accomplished.
- Master class/ performance class –a non-threatening performance opportunity. This is usually held in April/May prior to the local music festival so that students can work out “nerves” for the competition. As well, it is excellent June RCM exam preparation. Some years there are Master Classes where specialists, often RCM examiners, are hired to come in and work with the students in similar levels.
- Theory lessons - often theoretical concepts are worked on in the group using the RCM Theory Books for their specific level.