Frequently Asked Questions:
When asked about starting piano lessons, these questions are most often asked by parents and/or perspective students.
1. Why should my child study music?
For children, recent research has shown that piano/ keyboard lessons can improve abstract reasoning skills and spatial reasoning skills by 34%. Researchers at the University of California in Irvine made this correlation when studying a group of children taking piano lessons for six months compared to children not taking lessons. Researchers have observed that piano instruction can help students do better in school, particularly in science and math as compared to those students not receiving piano instruction. In other studies a direct correlation has been identified between classical music and an increase in IQ test scores. Additionally, higher SAT scores also have been reported for teenagers who study music.
2. Can music help children with disabilities or special needs such as ADD, ADHD (Attention Deficiency Hyperactivity Disorder), dyslexia, cerebral palsy, autism, or cognitive disabilities?
Students who have cognitive disabilities (ADD, ADHD), and take piano lessons have shown improvement in concentration and social behavior. Students with dyslexia have shown improvement in motor coordination and reading skills. Students with cerebral palsy or disabilities due to stroke improved their muscular coordination and improved tone of muscles with observable, decreased spasticity. Autistic students taking piano have shown improvements in communication, social behavior and mental reasoning, too. My own experience, working with several students with these learning disabilities and cognitive disabilities, has demonstrated that students improved dramatically with piano lessons and a real sense of accomplishment and esteem grew.
3. Who can take lessons at the PIANO SCHOOL?
The PIANO SCHOOL offers private and group lessons to all ages and levels, including special needs children and adults.
4. When can a child begin lessons?
Any age is appropriate if there is a desire to learn to play the piano. However, the best age for starting piano lessons is between the ages of three and ten. It is similar to learning a new language and requires similar cognitive abilities. Beginning music lessons early, develops creative abilities that will carry on through the rest of his/her life. Music helps build a child’s character and personality: discipline, perseverance, confidence and a sense of well being and accomplishment, sensitivity and creativity.
5. What methods are used for early ages?
Traditional and Suzuki piano lessons are available. Very young children are certainly capable of beginning piano lessons at an early age, but require a dedicated parent or guardian. We encourage parents to consider lessons for their children at early ages (pre-kindergarten) between 3 to 4 years old. Parents or guardian are required to attend all lessons with pre-schoolers and to schedule time to practice with their children.
6. What is taught at the PIANO SCHOOL?
Private and group lessons in piano and keyboard are offered. The curriculum consists of a variety of methods and materials and is tailored to fit each individual student based on his/her age and ability. After basic piano skills are mastered, students learn works from a variety of repertoire, including classical, religious, popular and jazz, and improvisational styles. Lessons include sight-reading, sight-singing, ear-training, music theory, music appreciation and history, composition, ensemble and performance classes. Studio master classes have focused on the music of Bach, Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, Schumann, and Chopin.
7. Do you accept adults as students?
Adult students are welcome with or without previous piano or musical training. Adults studying music reap many benefits: improved memory, stress release, and relaxation, making for a healthier adult (see Dr. Frederick Tims’ article in AMC Music News, June 2, 1999).
8. Can a student practice at home on an electronic keyboard?
Yes, you may practice on an electronic keyboard, if it is properly adjusted for suitable height for proper technic and posture. It is best to practice on a keyboard with 88 keys with weighted and touch-sensitive keys. Remember that If using a traditional piano (acoustic piano), make sure the piano is tuned regularly.
9. What performance activities are available for students?
There are two recitals during the year. Additionally, students are encouraged to participate in the Piano Guild auditions. Qualified students have the opportunity of participating with local events and competitions.
10. How can parents help their children practice at home?
Parents must recognize their roles as supervisor and motivator. They should help their children organize and plan daily practice time. Students who have a specific time everyday for practicing generally progress more consistently. Secondly, parents can encourage their children and take a true interest in their children’s musical endeavors. For example, parents might have periodic small home musicales with family and friends.
11. How much should a student practice?
Piano practicing develops physical and mental strength and acuity. Just like an athlete trains for a game, daily practice is essential. Just look at the Olympic athletes. Their success is based on extraordinary effort through many years of hard work and a love and commitment to their sport. Likewise to become a skillful pianist, a love of music, dedication to excellence, quality training, and a supportive, nurturing environment are part of the recipe for success.
12. What if my child wants to quit?
Parents want music to become an important part of their children's life. However, sometimes children want to quit taking lessons because lack of time to devote to his/her instrument or the child reaches difficulty in his/her practicing. Students and parents must realize that it takes several years to play well. Generally it takes about three years with daily practice to get beyond the "beginner" phase, when fundamental skills have been acquired such as fluid note-reading and basic rhythm patterns while practice habits are being established . It is helpful to speak with the piano instructor in order to solve problems a student might be having that cause him or her to want to quit. Common problems such as difficulty of note-reading and establishing rhythm skills (i.e., counting), difficulty scheduling practice time, and performance anxiety can be solved with help from the piano instructor, parents/ care-giver and student working together to establish concrete goals.
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