FAQs
Q: Do I need a piano at home to take piano lessons?
A: It is ideal if you do have a piano at home, but you can start piano lessons by using an electric keyboard to practice on at home. I recommend a keyboard that has regular sized keys and a touch-sensitive response. A touch-sensitive keyboard means if you press a key harder it will play louder and if you press a key softer it will play quieter.
Q: How long does it take to learn an instrument?
A: There is no set answer of how long it takes to learn an instrument. With regular practice, a basic level of playing can be accomplished in a few months. Most of my students take lessons on a long-term basis because they want to be constantly improving and they find the lessons enjoyable.
Q: I don't have any musical background or ability; can I still help my child practice?
A: Yes. Even if you don't have a musical background you can ask me for advice on how to help your child practice. By simply monitoring daily exercises you will notice that the student will progress. I am very happy to help to ensure my students get off to a great start!
Q: How long should my child practice each day?
A: I try not to recommend any particular length of time. Instead, I recommend repetition. For example, "Play the song 5 times every practice, and play the exercise 5 times every practice." This may take a half-hour or longer, but the student is not worried about time. They simply have to finish the repetitions. This approach makes practicing more fun, and the student will regularly progress. If a long practice period begins to become stressful, it is normal to take a break and do something else for a while.
Q: We're sorry. We had a tough week and we didn't practice much. Will my child do ok in their lesson this week?
A: Everybody has a tough week now and again. Let's go over the material from last week again, have some fun together and try to do better next week. **Music is fun! That's why they call it Playing Music!** We'll probably progress a bit anyway.
Q: Do you sell instruments?
A: No, I don't sell anything at my studio or online. If you are just starting out and don't have an instrument yet, I will gladly help point you in the right direction as far as where to get an instrument and about how much a beginner instrument should cost.
Q: Is it ok If my child decides to start on one instrument and then wants to switch to another instrument?
A: Absolutely. When a beginner starts playing music, one of the most important things for them is that they find the right instrument. Since I offer lessons on many instruments, they will easily be able to switch without disrupting your schedule.
Q: I need to change my schedule. What can we do?
A: I will do everything I can to accommodate changes in schedule. I ask for as much notice as you can possibly give me.
Q: My child wants to learn (guitar, bass, ukulele, etc) but I heard children are supposed to learn the piano first. Is that true?
A: Not necessarily. While I feel that a working knowledge of the piano (or keyboard) is extremely beneficial to any musician, it is ok to start on any instrument the student is interested in. If they are displaying lots of excitement about a different instrument, then it will be most beneficial to let them try that first. It is important to keep in mind, however, that string instruments with frets can prove difficult for students seven and under.
Q: Do you have a list of policies?
A: My policies are available upon request.