Frequently Asked Questions

Most lessons are 30 minutes long (once per week). For students who are in a more intermediate or advanced level (or wish to take longer lessons), they can also be 45 or 60 minutes in length. Please visit my Studio Policy page for current rates.

Lessons include sight reading, ear training, technique, repertoire and theory. Worksheets, recording or musical games are used to reinforce musical concepts.

Books are not included in the lesson rate and the costs will vary. Music festivals or ORMTA events may also require an entry fee.

There is no discount available. The lesson rate is the same for each student, based on the length of the lesson.

Lessons are taught Monday to Friday from 3:30pm - 8:30pm. Please contact me if you would like to inquire about availability.

Something to practice on during the week is required. This can be an acoustic piano or digital piano/keyboard.

Whether purchasing or renting a keyboard, there are a few features to take into consideration. A smaller sized keyboard (61 or 76 keys) will most likely use spring loaded key action (very light weight), which can make it difficult to adjust when moving to an acoustic piano (which has heavier keys). Some very inexpensive keyboards may also not allow for dynamics (controlling the volume by how hard or lightly you press the keys). A full-sized, 88-key digital piano or keyboard, with fully weighted keys and a damper pedal would be the best choice and would be sufficient for the beginning years.

If you are purchasing an acoustic piano there are many well-known brands to consider but ultimately it comes down to your preference. Keep in mind that the playability and sound are the more important aspects to consider (or you may also employ a piano technician to adjust the piano to your liking). Pianos need to be kept away from extreme heat or cold (uprights should preferably be against an inside wall), in a room with moderate humidity (40-50%RH) and should be tuned a minimum of once per year.

Visit The Piano Buyer website for information on purchasing pianos or keyboards and for care and maintenance tips.

The age for a child to begin piano lessons will depend on their interest. I have taught children as young as 3 years old who have enjoyed their lessons and learned very well. Around age 6 or 7 seems to be a great age for most children.

It is not necessary for a parent to be present during the lesson but you are certainly welcome to be. You may find that after observing the lesson you are able to help your child more easily with practice at home. In either case, anything a student is having difficulties with will be reviewed during upcoming lessons.

Anyone is able to learn how to play! Your goal may not be to become a concert pianist but your goal should be to enjoy yourself and enjoy music. Learning is simple and playing within your ability is all that you need to play the piano.

There is no trial lesson option available but there is also no policy on a set number of lessons you need to sign up for. If you are unsure if you or your child will enjoy lessons you can try it out for as long as you like. Understand though, that for some, a short period of time (1 month, for example) may not be enough to know whether to continue or not. It takes a few months (maybe even up to a year) to establish good habits and know enough of the basics of music to become comfortable.

I do not teach outside of my home studio. My studio is equipped with everything needed to make the most of the lesson; a grand piano, flash cards, games, worksheets and audio recording equipment.

Yes! I teach both in-person (in my studio) and online using Google Meet.

Yes. Continuing lessons during July & August can be very beneficial, especially for beginners who may find that they have forgotten some material after a long break. Students preparing for RCM exams are also able to schedule an exam during the August session and will benefit from the extra lesson time.

Yes. I hold two in-person studio recitals and one video recital per year and students may also participate in ORMTA events or music festivals in the area.

ORMTA is the Ontario Registered Music Teachers' Association. They are a not-for-profit provincial organization (with many local branches) managed by independent music instructors. Each branch organizes competitions, recitals and other fun events throughout the year in which only students of ORMTA Members can participate. Certain events may also give students an opportunity to move on to performing at the Provincial or National level.