HOW DO LESSONS WORK (COST, SCHEDULING) ?
Beginners and intermediate students have a 30-minute lesson per week. Advanced students, particularly if they are preparing for Royal Cconservatory of Music (RCM) examinations, have a one-hour lesson once per week.
Students generally can complete a grade level within a calendar year.
Contact Primo Piano for current information on tuition and availability.
WHAT IS THE BEST AGE TO START LEARNING PIANO ?
There is no "best" age to start learning piano.
A student must demonstrate physical, mental and emotional readiness. In a general way, readiness is linked to chronological age, although there is a great deal of individual variation.
With this view, most children are ready to begin formal lessons between the ages of 5 and 9 at the earliest.
Do not worry if this window of time has passed. Many students begin later -- some as teenagers or adults, in fact -- and suffer no significant disadvantages due to a " late" start.
However, note that most profesional musicians began their formal musical training before age 10.
WHAT IS THE CURRICULUM ?
Piano students starting from scratch begin with what is called "method books." The specific series and level of the method book is recommended by the teacher based on the student's age, natural abilities, and musical interests.
After completing foundational studies, the student may choose to continue with the method books or transition to Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) repertoire for the option of completing internationally recognized RCM examinations.
This is also supplemented with sheet music of the student's choice from the studio library. They are also welcome to bring in any other music they wish to learn.
To date, students have brought in a wide variety of piano sheet music: pop, rock, classical, TV / movie music, country, traditional folk music, etc.
Complementary instruction in sight reading, ear training, technique (scales, triads, arpeggios, etc.), and music theory is also provided to develop well-rounded musicianship.
ARE THERE OPPORTUNITIES TO PERFORM ?
Studio recitals and master classes are held annually depending on student interest.
There are also various local music competitions and music festivals (Kiwanis, Rotary Club, Metro East Music Festival, etc.).
Also consider performance opportunities such as holiday concerts, talent shows, fundraisers, etc. at your school or place of worship.
DO I NEED A "REAL" PIANO RIGHT AWAY ?
The ideal answer is Yes, but (given the realities of cost, space and other constraints) not necessarily right away.
For those who are unsure of the student's long-term interest or those who are taking lessons purely as a hobby, a keyboard or digital piano are perfectly acceptable substitutes. They can also serve as good "stepping stone" instruments before making the transition to a "real" piano.
Click here for more information.