FAQ’s
Q1. Is my child too young to start lessons?
Every child is different, and so I can’t give a concrete number. Generally speaking, your child is ready to begin lessons when:
They knows their left from their right
The child is learning to read.
They are focused & disciplined enough to sit at the piano for the duration of their lesson.
Is showing genuine interest in learning to play a musical instrument.
Q2. What do I need to purchase when commencing lessons?
I will generally suggest a theory (writing) and lesson (playing) book after assessing your child’s age and experience. If you already have music books at home that you’d like your young pianist to use, I’ll gage if the book is appropriate for your child. A note book is also a great thing to bring to class so the student can recall what they have been asked to practice. Eventually you will also need an A4 display folder to house music you have purchased outside of the books.
Q3. What experience do you have both teaching and as a musician?
I’ve been dedicated to constantly improving my knowledge and ability in the art of music for nineteen years, and have been teaching piano for the past eight. With a Bachelor Of Music form the University of Newcastle and have guided many students through the process of AMEB exams and HSC music. I am currently also in the process of writing my own beginners piano book.
Q4. As a parent with no musical education, how do I support and help my child practice?
My own parents had no musical experience when I started learning to play the piano. You don’t need to be as musically literate as your child to support them in their learning. Below are some things that you can do in order to help.
Sit in on your child’s lesson and listen as they are learning.
Ask your child what they learned after every lesson. Review the notes the teacher has left and make sure your child understands and remembers what they were taught while it is fresh in their mind. If they are able to explain it to you, that’s a great sign that they have a solid level of understanding.
Help them by setting up an achievable and consistant practice schedule.
Keep clear and frequent communication with the teacher regarding your child’s progress and ask them what you can be doing at home to support your child with their practice and understanding.
Check out my blog All About Practice for more practical tips.
