What piano method do you use?
We use a traditional theory-based teaching method. Composition, ear-training and sightreading are incorporated to a lesser degree into our lessons on a per student basis. Our lesson books include the Piano Adventures Student series as well supplemental materials. Your student’s Lesson and Theory Book are provided as part of your yearly season fee. A wide selection of additional literature is easily found in our local music stores or online.
Do I need a piano?
You do need a piano or a keyboard to begin piano lessons. If you are using a keyboard, it should have a minimum of 77 weighted full size keys and include a pedal. It should also be set up with a chair or stool to ensure proper posture. Please be aware that the keyboard and the piano are NOT the same instruments and certain skills, such as dynamic control, are more easily mastered on an acoustic piano. Once you have completed a maximum of 2 years in music study, you will need to explore purchasing an acoustic or full digital piano for continued study.
How often do I need to tune my piano?
Pianos should be tuned once a year at a minimum. A frequently used or older piano should be tuned twice a year.
How often do I have to practice?
Your teacher expects daily practice. What you will practice and how long you practice will be different from student to student. Your success in music will be directly linked to how often you practice on your own. Practice is encouraged until the assignment is complete-- not a certain amount of time.
An email with a Piano Practice Log will be sent out at the end of each lesson. Parents should review the practice log immediately after the lesson to prepare the student for their musical week. Ideally you will practice your music at the same time and in the same place everyday. Some great times to practice are right before school, right after school, or just before bed time. Find a time when you are not stressed or hungry and when distractions are minimal. If you play another instrument or take voice, it’s fine to rotate your instrument practice.
Will I have other homework?
Yes. You will have music theory homework every week. Your theory homework will strengthen your ability to read music and will help you enjoy playing the piano even more. Your theory homework should take less than 15 minutes each week. If you do not do your theory homework at home, you will be asked to do your theory work DURING your lesson time which will take away from your time at the piano and slow your music progress.
Do I have to memorize my music?
We do memorize our performance music. This is an excellent skill to learn in both music preparation and for your non-music studies. We work together on tricks and habits that will make memorization easier. We also play plenty of music that we do not memorize.
What other materials do I need?
You will need to have a working metronome available at all times. Pencils, music clips and post-it notes are also handy at the piano. Some students will also use a timer to help them during practice times.
What if I want to play music that hasn’t been assigned?
Little Ears has a small piano library available. Students may check out any available music book in two week intervals. Students will be responsible for the original cost of the book if it is not returned. Students should not spend time on UNassigned music until they have mastered their assigned lessons.
What if I want to play or sing something I heard on the radio?
Ask your teacher. She’ll do her best to find the music that inspires you. Be aware that some music will not be suitable for your skill level. It is your teacher’s job to balance what you need with what you want. The more you practice and the more you learn… the more music you’ll be able to play.
Why is the Season Fee non-refundable?
Your season fee for the new season is due in June PRIOR to the start of the September season. As Little Ears often has a waiting list, this fee ensures your spot in the new calendar. It shows that you are committed to joining us in the new season.
Throughout the summer, I spend an average of 4-5 hours preparing each student's music for the year. Music is pre-purchased and performance fees often come due over the summer months for Fall activities. The fee that you pay in June covers these activities & fees. Should you decide not to join us, you will be missed-- however, music cannot be returned nor time recovered.