Piano Lessons
Piano lessons are offered on a half an hour weekly basis. Lessons are completely comprehensive and incorporate music theory, scales, chord structure, note reading, aural theory, etc. as is appropriate for the students age and/or skill level. Lessons are tailored to each individual student's specific need. I use a variety of methods books, including The Music Tree, Piano Adventures, and Helen Marlais Succeeding at the Piano, along with supplemental material. Piano lessons are meant to be fun but also rewarding and challenging, therefore a variety of repertoire will be taught to students including popular music (or whatever type of music they especially would like to learn). I accept students of all ages and skill levels, and teach any genre or music. Lessons can be given to suit either a very serious advanced player or a causual player.
The following is my studio policy regarding lessons:
Studio Policy
Nicholas A. Carroll
“Music is the movement of sound to reach the soul for the education of its virtue.”
-Plato
Music education is an integral part of a complete life experience. The study of piano creates individuals who are well rounded, and capable of appreciating and participating in the aesthetic virtues that music brings. Participation in music gives students increased cognitive capacities and highly developed skills in discipline. Playing the piano builds important skills with hand-eye dexterity along with patience. The piano is the only instrument (besides the organ) that gives an individual the ability to create grand harmonies outside of a large ensemble. Most importantly, music increases the overall quality of life.
Tuition:
Tuition for lessons will be paid on a weekly basis at the rate of $15.00 per half hour. (Note the national average rate of a piano teacher of my skill level is $25-30 per half an hour).
Students lesson books will be provided by the teacher with the cost to be reimbursed by the Student as needed.
Practice: “Now that you know how it’s done, it’s only a matter of practice.”
- Jim Steinman
Success in mastering the piano requires not only uninterrupted attendance to lessons but also continual and focused practice. If a regular practice schedule is maintained, students will enjoy success. A beginning student should practice a minimum of 15 minutes every day. Once a student begins to see his or her own success that comes with practice this success will become its own motivation. A notebook containing each week’s assignment will be kept for each student. Each student will need to purchase a metronome when informed by the teacher to do so. Fingernails must be trimmed and well groomed for proper keyboard technique. Ultimately perfect practice is what will forge excellent playing ability.
Attendance:
If given at least 24 hour notice, make up lessons will be given or they will not be billed. Should a student miss without notice they must pay for their lesson time. Students arriving late for a lesson will not be given additional time; this cuts into other students’ lesson time. Attendance is necessary for success. Lessons will continue during the summer months, however adjustments can be made to work around camps, trips, vacations, etc.
Performance:
Students will participate in a spring recital featuring all students in the studio. Performance and hearing other players is necessary to develop an excellent pianist.
Playing the piano is a life-long skill that can bring joy even into adulthood. Such a skill is irreplaceable to those who have acquired it while they are young.
Come on in and enjoy the wonderful world of music!!! You won’t regret it!
