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• What is a good age to begin piano lessons for my child?

It really depends on your child and several other factors such as: hand size, fine motor skills, interest or desire, and whether or not your child has the time to devote to practicing at home between lessons. I find that 5 1/2 -8 is a good age range to consider beginning piano lessons. During these years their brains are still developing and they may be able to learn new concepts easier. They will also be able to comprehend and follow a structured curriculum as they are already in school learning to read as well. Also, be mindful of the fact that consistent daily practice will be a requirement for a successful experience in one's piano education.

If you notice your 3 year old toddler has a desire or natural talent for all things musical, do continue to immerse and nurture that desire because it may soon blossom and open doors for further education and refinement of these skills! What I recommend is finding a pre-school that has a good general music program for the toddler years. The important thing is that they are in touch with their sense of rhythm and pitch and exploring it through many diverse and FUN avenues! Do some local research because there are indeed instructors who rather enjoy and specialize in teaching pre-school aged pupils. Here in my studio and speaking for myself, I prefer to begin at ages 5 1/2-8 because that is where I am the most effective and experienced.

• What does your teaching schedule look like?

I teach Monday to Friday, morning hours to about 6:00 pm with the exception of the occasional and/or temporary time commitments I make to accompany or direct for various musical productions and school choirs in the community. Students come to their lessons for 30 minutes, once a week. In the event that one cannot make their lesson, parents communicate their conflicts so we can arrange a makeup lesson or save that lesson as a credit for later.  Scheduling is addressed in more detail during orientation.

• Do you use method books? If so, what methods do you use?

Depending on age of course, I like using either the Bastien or Faber method. For my youngest beginners, I will go ahead and start them in the Primer level.  My older intermediate/advanced students will work their way up the levels and graduate out, and I will also supplement them with more interesting repertoire on the side such as classical, jazz or pop. I also emphasis the importance of technical drills such as, but not restricted to, Hanon in order to keep the brain challenged and the muscles strong and flexible.

• Are there performance opportunities in your studio?

Yes! I organize two recitals per year; one spring and one winter concert. We sometimes incorporate themes into our program. Students are given ample time to learn, practice and memorize their solos and often times I will accompany them in a duet as well. Recitals are a great challenge for performers of all ages that help to overcome stage fright and build overall confidence.