1. What is the best age for my child to begin lessons?
Every teacher will answer this differently, but I have found that the earlier a student begins, the better, so after accessing for readiness, attention span, social and cognitive ability, eye and aural awareness and motor developement, I frequently start students as early as 5 years, using quality methods that are age-appropirate and playful. The goal is to have students make enough progress during the elementary years that when they reach middle school and demands on their time increase, they will quit with it because piano has become part of their identity.
2. Am I too old to take lessons?
That's an easy one. No, you are never too old. And not only can you learn, but playing the piano is good medecine. It helps with fine motor and cognitive skills and strengthens memory. I went back to school full-time in music therapy as a non-traditional college student. Going back to class was challenging enough, but I also had to learn to play guitar! While I won't tell you it is easy, I will tell you that it was joyful! What I lacked in retention skiills, I more than made up in determination. My best advice to older learners is to seize the moment and do it! I don't regret going back to school for one minute.
3. Do I need to have an instrument to take lessons?
Yes, you do. I love and prefer acoustic pianos and personally own and teach on two Steinways. But there are several high quality digial pianos that are lovey to play, including Kawai and Yahama. If you decide to purchase a keyboard, I recommend one with a full-size keyboard, weighted, full-size, touch-sensitive keys and a damper pedal. Google Larry Fine for a great book on buying a piano.
4. We were on vacation and my children didn't have time to practice. Should we come to our lesson?
Yes. This is a great opportunity for us to work onpractice techniques, sight-reading skills, theory, listening, improvising, ear-training, rhythm activites, etc. I can always use the time wisely.
5. I need to have my piano tuned. Who should I use?
I recommend using a registered piano technician. Google Pittsburgh Piano Technicians Guild.
6. How much do I have to practice?
Ideally you should practice until your goals are met. But if you are looking for times, I recommend:
FIrst year students - 5 days week/15-20 minutes
Elementary and middle students - 5 days week/30 minutes
High school - 5 days week/45 minutes
College tutoring students - 6 days/week/60 minutes
Adults - as the crow flies
FIrst year students - 5 days week/15-20 minutes
Elementary and middle students - 5 days week/30 minutes
High school - 5 days week/45 minutes
College tutoring students - 6 days/week/60 minutes
Adults - as the crow flies