What ages do you teach?
Students of all ages are welcome, but a general rule of thumb is age six and up for piano lessons, and age nine and up for harp lessons. Individual interests and abilities differ, and this influences each student's readiness for music lessons. For young learners, the most important element is that the child has expressed his or her own interest in learning a musical instrument. It is helpful if the child has basic reading skills before beginning lessons. A basic piano background is helpful for learning the harp, but not necessary. Before registering for lessons, please contact the studio to arrange a short meeting. This can help both the instructor and you determine the best fit for your needs.
I'm an adult learner. Is it too late for me to start music lessons for the first time or pick up where I left off?
It is never too late to start a musical pursuit! Unlike sports or other heavily physically-dependent activities, learning and enjoying music is a lifelong process that can benefit anyone, regardless of their age. Many adults have commented on the deep joy and satisfaction of taking up a musical instrument later in life. Please contact the studio to set up a short meeting to discuss your musical goals and decide if piano lessons are right for you. For more information about the benefits of taking music lessons as an adult, read this BBC article.
What styles do you teach?
Students have the opportunity to learn a wide variety of musical styles, including classical, pop, religious, and jazz pieces. Contact the studio to schedule a short meeting to discuss your musical goals and preferences.
What curriculum do you use?
Every student has a unique learning style and differing abilities, so the instructor will select a method for best fit. Most young piano students begin with the Piano Adventures series, a comprehensive piano curriculum published by Nancy and Randall Faber. Beginning harp students will start with a selection of books including Samuel Milligan's Fun From the First. Intermediate and advanced piano and harp students collaborate with the instructor to select repertoire and technique books related to their skills and goals. Older beginners and adult students have several options to choose from according to their learning interests and style preferences. In addition to the regular curriculum, the instructor will periodically select solo pieces and bonus activities to match the student's special interests and skills.
How much do lessons cost?
Current tuition rates can be found on this page. Tuition is based on the duration of lesson times. Beginners typically have a 30-minute lesson, intermediate students take 45-minute lessons, and advanced students have an hour lesson once per week. Please ask about a tuition discount if you have three or more children beginning lessons.
When are lessons scheduled?
Lessons take place during weekday afternoons and early evenings. The academic year is divided into three terms: Fall, Winter, and Spring, with student recitals typically scheduled in winter and spring. Refer to the Studio Calendar for academic term dates.
Do I need a piano/harp at home if I take lessons?
Yes. It is crucial that each student has a reliable instrument to practice on at home. When choosing a piano, there are two main options: acoustic or digital. When buying an acoustic piano, keep in mind that the instrument needs to be tuned/serviced on a yearly basis. When buying a digital piano, look for a model with weighted keys, a sustain pedal, and a full 88-key keyboard. For harps, several options are available, varying in terms of size and price. Some harp students may want to rent a harp before buying. Please contact the studio for assistance in finding an instrument.
Do you offer lessons in the student's home?
No. The studio provides the best access to the instructor's entire collection of music, tools, and other resources used during lessons. Although some teachers offer in-home lessons, many have noticed that their students have better focus and more enjoyable lessons in the teacher's environment rather than the student's home.