Frequently Asked Questions
When do piano lessons begin and end?
The music season runs from October 1 to June 30, so if you are enrolled for the season you will have 35 scheduled lessons.
What if I'm not ready to commit to the whole music season?
I offer a package of 12 weekly consecutive lessons. You can pick the start date anytime within the music season.
What days of the week and what times do you have available for piano lessons?
Weekdays Monday to Friday 9 AM to 9 PM (MST) subject to availability. Closed Saturdays and Sundays and Statutory Holidays.
What age should my child begin piano lessons?
My studio primarily offers individualized piano lessons, so lessons are designed specifically for the student in mind, taking their age, attention span, reading and writing skills into consideration. For preschool children (4 years old and up) parent participation is required for online lessons until the child demonstrates they can follow along comfortably without the help of an adult. Children younger than 4 would benefit more from a "music group" class which you can look for in your local community.
How can busy working adults fit in piano lessons?
Today with video conferencing, you can be just about anywhere and have a piano lesson. Some even schedule their piano lessons over their lunch hour at work. Today there are a variety of compact light portable keyboards you can take most anywhere. Some prefer to have their lesson in the evening in the comfort of their home so they don't have to go out again after a long work day. Others like to schedule it first thing in the morning before they start the day. The wonderful thing about video conferencing lessons is even if you live in a remote area and there are no experienced piano teachers, you can still have the opportunity to learn to play piano face to face with a professional instructor!
Are video conferencing piano lessons as effective as in-person lessons?
The lesson structure is basically the same, in addition video conferencing lessons have these benefits: (1) the ability to screen share online resources and games to better understand music theory making learning more exciting than the traditional textbook learning (2) multiple camera views allow the teacher and the student see each other and each can sit in front of a keyboard at the same time and see each others hands clearly (3) a student can ask the teacher to record the lesson and send it to them so they can refer back to the instruction during the week if they forget something (4) you are more comfortable and focused because you are in a familiar environment in your own home with your own instrument (5) you are not limited to picking teachers in your immediate geographical vicinity, so if you’re working odd hours, you can find an instructor living in another time zone who will be available when you’re free (6) you save time and money not having to travel to a music studio (7) it prevents spread of infectious diseases, flu and colds.
Am I too old for piano lessons?
You are never too old...there are only benefits! Studies have proven that learning piano can stimulate the brain and increase the ability to recall information. Some may think that stiff joints may prevent them from playing, but these are minor obstacles that can be overcome through short daily practice sessions, massaging the fingers and doing regular relaxation checks. Playing the piano increases fine motor skills in your fingers and keeps the muscles in the hands flexible, improving circulation in your fingers. Challenges with eyesight can be addressed with reading glasses, having good direct lighting and using large print music.
Do you give in-studio lessons?
Yes for those who can come to my studio in Edmonton, Alberta.
Do you give make-up lessons?
Like the majority of extracurricular activites, your fees guarantee a specific activity on a set day and time. It is the same with piano lessons. If you cannot make it to an "in-studio" lesson, I would happily replace it with a video-conferencing lesson at your regular scheduled time. Please contact me beforehand to receive the link and have sufficient time to set up. I understand that for some people with busy lives it can be difficult scheduling piano lessons so please notify me "prior to enrolling" to discuss your special circumstances and I will do my best to accommodate you.
How much do piano lessons cost?
My rates are competitively priced according to going rates in Canada. For those who enroll for the entire season, I offer family discounts for each additional family member who also enroll for the entire season. For those who may have to discontinue piano lessons for any reason and are enrolled for the entire season, I require 1 calendar month's notice.
What methods of payment do you accept?
Currently accepting e-transfers only.
If you have any addtional questions concerning course materials or equipment requirements feel free to schedule a free video conferencing consultation.
