FAQ
Beginners and intermediates generally have a weekly thirty-minute lesson. Advanced students, particularly if they are preparing for Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) examinations, have a weekly one-hour lesson. Most students can complete a grade level within a calendar year. Contact us for current information on tuition and availability
The ideal answer is YES, but given the realities of cost, space and other constraints it is not a necessity right away. For those who are unsure of long-term interest or those who are taking lessons purely as a pastime, a keyboard or digital piano are perfectly acceptable substitutes. They can also serve as good "stepping stone" instruments before making the transition to a "real" piano. Click here for more information.
Absolute beginners who have had little to no prior formal lessons before usually begin with method books. The specific method book series and level is recommended by the teacher based on the student's age, natural abilities, and musical interests. After establishing a firm foundation the student may later choose to proceed through the method books or transition to Royal Conservatory of Music repertoire for the opportunity to complete formal examinations.
This can be supplemented with sheet music of the student's choice from the studio library or other sources.
Current students have an eclectic range of musical tastes and select pieces from a variety of genres: pop, rock, classical, folk, country and western, international / traditional folk music, jazz, broadway, TV and movie music, etc.
Complementary instruction in sight reading, ear training, technique (technical elements such as scales, triads, arpeggios, etc.) and music theory is provided to develop well-rounded musicianship.
There is no "best" age to start formal lessons. The most important thing is that the prospective student demonstrates physical, mental, and emotional readiness. In a general way, readiness is linked to chronological age but there is a great deal of variation from one individual to another. With this view, most children are ready to start formal lessons between the ages of 5 and 9 at the earliest.
There is no reason to worry if this window of time has passed. Many students begin later -- some as teenagers or adults -- and do not experience any major disadvantages due to a "late" start.
However, do note that most professional musicians began their formal musical training before age 10.
Click here to find out how.