What To Expect
Typically, each lesson lasts 30 minutes and covers a range of skills essential to mastering the basics of piano playing and general musicianship. The emphasis is very much on having fun and really enjoying the learning experience, so the atmosphere is relaxed and there is always time for a good / terrible joke or two. (Did you hear the one about the pianist who kept banging his head against the keys? He was playing by ear).
Typically, each lesson lasts 30 minutes and covers a range of skills essential to mastering the basics of piano playing and general musicianship. The emphasis is very much on having fun and really enjoying the learning experience, so the atmosphere is relaxed and there is always time for a good / terrible joke or two. (Did you hear the one about the pianist who kept banging his head against the keys? He was playing by ear).
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And it's not all about sitting still and staring solidly at blobs on a page, either... One of the best things about learning to play a musical instrument is that you pick up so many other great skills along the way: from logic to listening skills, to problem solving and co-ordination. So, there are always opportunities for musical games and exercises, from more traditional things like clapping games to exploring innovative iPad apps - these become the first building blocks of musical theory which play an increasingly important role as the piano learning journey continues. If you wish to take a more formal approach to music theory, this can also be taught discretely as part of slightly longer lessons (usually 45 minutes). |
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Normally, lessons are delivered weekly in blocks that align with local school term dates. There is no such thing as "one size fits all" when it comes to learning the piano, so learning materials are carefully chosen to suit the age, learning style and interests of the individual pupil. These materials form an integral part of each lesson and provide structure for the all-important practising in between lessons.
Further down the line, if desired, pupils can be entered for short performance tests (such as ABRSM or LCM Grade exams), where certificates of achievement can be gained - it's great to have something to show for all that hard work. To date I've guided pupils through over 60 exams, with a 100% pass rate and over 80% achieving a Merit or Distinction. This side of things is normally discussed on an individual basis depending on progress and the pupil's own wishes. And it's worth pointing out that it can take many, many lessons over several years to be ready to take a first piano exam - it's a long road! On the other hand, a lot of people learn just for fun and don't go anywhere near exams. Either way, all learners receive clear feedback and encouragement about their progress and the various personal milestones they reach in a motivational way.
Wherever your amazing musical journey takes you, Piano Hands is all about making the best possible start, and far above all else just enjoying yourself!
Further down the line, if desired, pupils can be entered for short performance tests (such as ABRSM or LCM Grade exams), where certificates of achievement can be gained - it's great to have something to show for all that hard work. To date I've guided pupils through over 60 exams, with a 100% pass rate and over 80% achieving a Merit or Distinction. This side of things is normally discussed on an individual basis depending on progress and the pupil's own wishes. And it's worth pointing out that it can take many, many lessons over several years to be ready to take a first piano exam - it's a long road! On the other hand, a lot of people learn just for fun and don't go anywhere near exams. Either way, all learners receive clear feedback and encouragement about their progress and the various personal milestones they reach in a motivational way.
Wherever your amazing musical journey takes you, Piano Hands is all about making the best possible start, and far above all else just enjoying yourself!