Teaching Environment
Aims
My aim in my piano teaching is to help the students gain the skills and understanding to have a lifelong interest in music. Beyond the piano, a number of my students have participated in other musical activities at their schools. Those who join choirs often find this an enriching experience, while those who take up a second instrument find it easier to learn it due to the skills they have acquired in their piano study. My approach is to help the students build on the skills they have already acquired, and to gradually become independent learners.
Lesson times
Lesson times are 40 minutes for beginners to Piano Exam Grade 1 level, 50 minutes for Piano Exam Grade 2 level and an hour from Piano Exam Grade 3 onwards. During each lesson we cover a range of topics, including interpretation, technique, musicianship, aural work, performance skills and sight reading. I aim to devote a reasonable part of the lesson to working on bringing out the message of the music, as I believe that through this the students gain confidence and enjoyment in the performance of their music.
Performance opportunities
At the close of every term I ask all of my students to attend an end of term concert. This is an opportunity for students to gain valuable performing skills. I ask all my students to play a piece they have been working on, as well as a duet with me. In addition to the performance aspect, these concerts also offer the opportunity for pupils to socialise with other students from the studio.
Expectations
In my piano studio I have a wide range of music books which I give to my students on loan. However, any theory books and/or materials need to be purchased, and I additionally ask that all of my students to have and use a metronome.
I believe that students need to practice at least five days a week to progress with their skill development. Progress is one the the factors in determining a student’s motivation. In addition, it is my belief that a parent’s or caregiver's role in the learning of a musical instrument is vital. The younger the student, the more involved a parent/caregiver needs to be. Whilst the student is a beginner, the parent/caregiver should ideally be available to read through with the student the aims of the practice for the week. Parents/caregivers should also be involved in helping to set short and long term goals for the student’s practice and the achievement of these goals. As the student progresses their parent/caregiver will still be involved, but to a lesser degree.
Please don't hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions regarding my teaching aims, expectations or other matters.