Piano has been part of my life since I was young. I was trained in the traditional style and self-taught myself to play by chords, allowing me to play in a variety of settings, including performance, accompaniment, and for leisure for over 30 years. Other instruments I’ve learned (and sometimes still play) include guitar, ukulele, saxophone, and violin.
Playing piano allows one to learn the language of music – how notes are related, how chords work together, how a piece is built on melodies and harmonies. This can establish a life-long appreciation for music and start a person on a journey that can lead to many different directions. No matter where piano takes you, it’s worth it. Working hard to master a song means you have created a friend you can return to months or years later.
In teaching piano, identifying a student’s skill level, their goals, and their musical style is key. Young players can feel that piano is a chore, so balancing skills-training through scales, technical exercises, and theory along with classical pieces and contemporary songs that interest a student can keep it feeling fun and motivated.
I start by assessing a student’s skill level, goals, and level of motivation. If my student is a young person, it’s important their parents are involved in the process. It helps if the family as a whole is enjoying music and encouraging practice.
I use positive reinforcement in encouraging my students, celebrating their successes, and making sure challenges are achievable yet stretching. I encourage students to master specific pieces and achieve technical proficiency. Periodically, I host recitals so students have a place to perform and families and communities can celebrate their achievements.
I have progress journals for each student where we can document achievements, repertoire, and practice routines. We can note where students excel and where more attention should be focused. Students should also maintain a practice log at home, starting with at least fifteen minutes of practice a day.
Friends and family receive special consideration as new students.