Tag Archives: recommended

At What Age Should My Child Start Piano Lessons?

Q: ” What age is good to start taking piano? ” A: Most children are ready to begin lessons when they reach first grade. However, if you would like for your child to learn to play by ear, start him … Continue reading

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Why Sight Reading is Important

There is some debate between supporters of sight reading and supporters of learning by ear.  I support sight reading because, just like learning to read English, it allows for students to analyze and understand what they are playing. Reading music … Continue reading

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Group Versus Individual Lessons

I’ve had many parents ask me, “What are better, group piano lessons or individual, private lessons?” You really have to weigh the pros and cons on this one. What is better for one student may not be better for the … Continue reading

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Help! I Get So Nervous Before Recitals!

Whether it be a fancy recital at the county auditorium or playing the keyboard for my fourth grade class, I was always nervous before a public performance, butterflies in my tummy, shaking hands, thoughts of, What if I completely forget … Continue reading

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Three Tips on Practicing With a Metronome

Most musicians will testify that practicing with a metronome helps their understanding of a piece of music. Whether you are a first year music student or a professional on world tour, you will encounter the need for a metronome in your … Continue reading

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Reading Notes, Memorizing Pieces

Q: I have a feeling that my child is not learning to read music. Instead, she memorizes the pieces. When I ask her to name one specific note in the written music, she cannot answer. I would like for her … Continue reading

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How Young is Too Young to Begin?

How old is too old? Piano lessons can begin at any age, but there must be an optimal age, yes? There are more than a few schools of thought on this issue. The Suzuki Method encourages very young children who … Continue reading

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The First Lesson: Names of the White Keys on the Piano

To begin the first lesson, I ask the student to identify a pattern on the piano. If he needs help, a good hint is to note the black keys. I have heard many good responses, but the response that I’m … Continue reading

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Piano and Musical Goals

You have decided that it’s time to begin piano lessons. Why? Do you have a relative or friend who also plays music and wish to play together? Perhaps you’d like to learn a few carols for Christmas. Do you have … Continue reading

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Recommended Keyboards

I know that you are busy. In order to save you time comparing sound quality and key weight on different keyboards all over town, I recommend: At a middle of the road price, the CASIO CTK 3000 is the best … Continue reading

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