What is the best age to start piano lessons?

Children as young as age 3 can begin taking piano lessons but that does not mean it is right for every 3 year old child. Some signs that point to little ones being ready for piano lessons are if they are able to sit for a few minutes and can stay somewhat focused during that time. At age 5, most children can focus enough to begin enjoying piano a thirty-minute piano lesson. Piano playing can be learnt at any age. In fact, older students might see progress faster because they are able to practice more efficiently.

I hate practicing. What do you do differently to help me change that?

Practicing is one of the integral parts of training to play, and if you want to enjoy playing the piano, you should be enjoying your practice time. Depending on your personality and music taste, it is the most important part of my duty as a music teacher, to help you find ways to enjoy to the utmost your practice time.

Are pianists and accompanists the same?

Good question! Maybe I can try to answer this by saying that all accompanists are pianists but not all pianists will be accompanists. Some pianists enjoy playing in groups and along with other musicians. Accompanists are able to enjoy the process of listening to other musician and creating music along. Once you realize you love playing with other musicians it is just a matter of practice and experience that will make you an “accompanist”!

What type of music is learnt during lessons? Does it have to be classical music/ RCM exam preparation?

Nope! The style of music that is learnt in class is chosen specifically for the student based on their personal goals and musical taste. Modern piano methods like Alfred’s Premier and Bastien are strongly encouraged in order to follow a progressive set of difficulty. When searching for an appropriate level for my students I tend to look for pieces that they can handle independently and for a short time before making them progress to harder music. My students range from playing the Game of Thrones theme song to Chopin’s Polonaises.

Are online lessons just as effective as in person lessons?

I believe that online lessons work very well with students that are between the RCM level 1 and 6. While great progress can be made through online lessons and the convenience is impossible to beat, in person lessons offers a better experience because the teacher can grasp the entirety of the student’s performance without the drawback of small computer screens, slow Wi-Fi connections and distorted audio. It is much easier to correct the student’s hand movements by showing them in person than by showing through a screen. Given our new circumstances and preferences of people to remain at home, the option to receive lessons online or in person is completely personal.