Lesson program
The lesson program is a weekly recurring schedule of sessions. Each student has a set time which they show up for their lesson and we get to work.
What happens in a lesson? Most lessons follow a consistent guideline. Typically we start by reviewing music fundamentals, then exercises, theory and repertoire review, and then we work on the feature song. There are variations to the standard flow, where we might shift to focus on the specific interests the student, such as songwriting, improvisation, or analysis. We will include study time focusing on the basic building blocks of music during each session even when we are exploring other interests. Every lesson is conducted in a one-on-one setting in a supportive atmosphere where questions and student input are encouraged.
Method Books
Most students will be working from both a lesson book series as well as a general music binder with fundamentals and repertoire. There will be a one time materials fee charge for the general music binder of $40. Students must bring the general music binder as well as their lesson book to every class.
The lesson books used are:
Alfred’s Piano Library lesson books
Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) series
Julie McIntosh Johnson theory study books
Equipment needed
Piano
Metronome, dedicated light to sit atop the piano or keyboard. If a keyboard is used, the keyboard it is preferable that the keyboard will have 88 weighted keys. Also, if using a keyboard a sturdy music stand with a dedicated stand light is required.
Guitar
Metronome, music stand with dedicated light, guitar tuner, guitar (electric or acoustic). If the guitar is an electric, an amplifier will be needed as well.
Drums
Metronome, music stand, with dedicated stand light, acoustic or electric drum set with sticks. Minimum requirements are that the drum set should have a hi hat, snare drum and bass drum. Student should bring their sticks to the lesson.
Suggestions for equipment: music stand, stand light, guitar tuner, metronome.