Piano Studio
Frequently Asked Questions
How old do you have to be to learn the piano?
Every teacher has their own preference about when a child is ready to begin lessons. As a primary school teacher and piano teacher know that students need to be developing their fine motor skills, be able to read, count and follow directions. For these reasons I will only take students for one to one from 7 years old.
How can I help my child?
Supporting your child's musical development can seem daunting, especially if you've not played an instrument before. Children have a natural curiosity and desire to please, the best way to help them progress quickly is simply to take an interest!
I always welcome parents sitting in on lessons, and encourage them to take an active interest in what we're doing. Practice can be a lonely occupation, and children thrive on company. So sit with your child while they practice, listen, comment and encourage. Parents who wish to learn their child’s instrument to assist their children in their pursuit of musical knowledge are encouraged to have lessons as well.
Do you teach theory?
I always teach the rudiments of music theory, and theory work is generally incorporated into lessons through hands on activities and games, the use of theory books and various apps.
Do you teach during the day or just after school?
Yes, I teach in the early afternoon to accommodate students interested in lessons at the studio out of school hours, such as adult students and children who are home schooled.
What is Piano Maestro and how do you use it in the studio?
Piano Maestro is a fun and engaging piano practice tool for families and teachers. Chosen by Apple as #1 Education App in over 20 countries. It works with any piano or keyboard and is an in depth educational tool for students beginning to study piano. Piano Maestro helps students practice and learn their sight reading, rhythm, technique, playing with both hands and much more. If you are a part of the studio, you are given unlimited and free access to this app with your own iPad through my studio subscription. If students do not have access to an iPad at home, they are able to utilise this resource during their weekly lesson.
Does the studio have a Facebook page?
Yes, we do! Pop on over, like our page and take a look at the latest happenings from the studio. https://www.facebook.com/KDPiano/
Do I need to have a piano at home?
Yes, you need to have access to a piano or digital piano at home. Without access to an instrument, progress is limited and the student often becomes frustrated and disengaged. I strongly recommend that students only use a keyboard during the first few months of learning as they do not promote correct technique and development. After this time a more suitable piano/digital piano will need to be purchased.
Do you teach children with learning difficulties?
As a qualified school teacher who has been working in the Lutheran education system for over 12 years, I definitely welcome students that have learning needs such as ASD etc. to learn at my studio.
Where can I purchase a good quality piano in Adelaide?
I always point students to two places when looking to purchase their first piano. The first being Winston Music at Daw Park if you are looking for a brand new piano and Mobile Piano Service at Norwood who have a wonderful range of restored and new pianos. If you are looking for a digital piano, Allans in Gawler place have a great selection.