How Do Lessons Go?
Here are examples of how lessons might proceed.
First Lesson
In a first lesson with a new young pupil, Susan takes the time to develop a rapport and put them at their ease. Making them laugh is always a great start! We would play various games and do lots of moving around to music. My ultimate goal with the first lesson is to make them want to come back!
Intermediate Pupils
Students at every level want to enjoy going to the piano every day, and so having a wide variety of styles, especially music that is a favourite of the student, would need to be part of their repertoire. Theory is extremely important in piano study, and Susan makes it a part of every lesson, always doing the theory at the piano, playing all the examples as they are written.
Games can still be part of an Intermediate student’s lesson, to help with learning critical theoretical topics. As the student progresses, the lessons will naturally be structured for the student to meet their goals so that they progress most effectively.
Technique is an important aspect of piano study, but should not be the most important part of playing the piano! Susan likes to choose some wonderful jazzy pieces that incorporate a lot of technique that is hidden in the wonderful sound of these great pieces!
Students may or may not wish to follow the Conservatory curriculum, or take part in recitals, festivals or examinations, and Susan does not force any student’s participation. Students who do enter competitions and examinations consistently achieve very high standings.
Adults
Susan has many adult students often returning to the piano later in their lives when they want to regain that fun and excitement of playing jazz or classical music for their own enjoyment.
Susan has had adults who are well-established in their careers and even some in their nineties who still get to challenge themselves with new pieces or new styles of music. Susan adores teaching adults because they have a thirst for learning which is so very rewarding to work with!
Advanced Pupils
Susan has taken on many advanced students who need special tutelage in specific areas to improve their skills often to get into University music programmes. Susan teaches a lot of Advanced Theory and Harmony to these pupils, sometimes ideally done over the Internet for pupils in outlying areas across the country who may not have access to teachers with these capabilities closer to home!