Piano
Piano, from the first notes
Students start at five. Adults start at any age. Nobody needs to own a piano before the first lesson: ask your teacher before you buy or rent.
A lesson
Three parts, every week
- 01
Step 1: A warm-up
Scales, a short piece you know or a rhythm to clap. It wakes the hands and shows the teacher where you are today.
- 02
Step 2: New material
One new idea, shown at the piano and explained, then tried by you until it works.
- 03
Step 3: A plan for the week
Your teacher writes down what to practice and why, so the week at home has a shape.
Formats
How long, and with how many
Age, stage and goals set the length and the format. Your teacher suggests both at the placement visit.
- 30, 45 or 60 minutes
Private lesson
One student and one teacher, for thirty, forty-five or sixty minutes. The default for school-age beginners and for adults.
- 45 or 60 minutes
Shared lesson
Two students and one teacher, for forty-five or sixty minutes. Good for friends, siblings, or a parent and child learning side by side.
- 60 minutes
Group class
Up to six students in a theory and ear class, or a first-notes class for ages five to seven. Group classes are not made up when missed.
The rooms
A plain building, a quiet room
The academy is on the second floor of an office building. Each lesson room has an upright piano, two chairs and a window, and the door has a window in it.
Before you buy or rent, ask your teacher what to look for. A keyboard with full-size weighted keys and a sturdy bench are what most students need to begin.
Not sure which format fits?
A placement visit settles it. You will leave with a teacher and a weekly time to consider.