Semester Piano Course

The Semester Course is a program that starts in August and runs through December. It consists of 16, 45-minute lessons. It is designed to give students a well-rounded piano education. Emphasis is placed on written music early on, providing a firm foundation on which to build new concepts. The lessons not only deal with playing and using written music but also concentrate on many aspects of music theory, including intervals, chords and scales. Ear training is also introduced and students learn the building blocks of playing by ear.

How does your child fit in?

Each class meets once weekly. Children are placed into classes with students of similar ability levels. Class sizes are generally limited to six students or less. Students are grouped by age and level.  Some age mixing occurs in groups due to ability level and the learning speed of the students. Participation in the prerequisite class,  Blast Off,  allows the instructor to establish the appropriate grade level for new beginners.  For the continuing student, performance from the previous year's study determines the group in which they are placed.   Click here to read the benefits of group piano lessons.

How are classes structured?

Each student has the use of an electronic keyboard on which they learn new music and review past week's music. Students play together along with the teacher who sets the tempo. This process encourages students to count and use a steady tempo while playing in class and at home.  Emphasis is placed on rhythm and students are encouraged to count aloud together instilling an almost subconscious sense of timing. There are plenty of opportunities for soloing while reviewing old pieces as students take turns playing alone.  Creative music theory activities are used actively in class to teach and reinforce musical concepts.  Rhythm exercises and ear training are incorporated into every lesson to help develop a natural sense of rhythm and pitch. Emphasis is placed on building strong music reading skills and correct hand/body technique and correct use of fingers and fingering in each class. 

Practicing

Regular practice at home is key to your child being successful in piano classes. It is expected that students practice 5 days a week and twice on each song assigned. It is best if practice sessions can be broken up and done twice daily if possible. Practice records are given to students in class with the week's assigned songs listed. Please help your child keep track of the practice record, and fill it in AS they practice each practice session. The record is checked at the beginning of each class so the teacher can assess the practice routine. Students will not progress without regular practice. If a student does not practice on an ongoing basis, they may be asked to leave the class. 

At Home Requirements: 

•  A piano or keyboard (with full sized keys) easily accessible for daily practice.

• A practice routine of at least 10 to 15 minutes per day for beginners, 5 days per week.

• An available parent to oversee and help with daily practice.

Please read about the necessity of practicing here.