Questions Related to Private Lessons

 One on One Private Voice, Violin and Piano Lessons

 

Why should I take classical music lessons?

 

The ancient Greeks considered Music/Math/Science and Astrology to be related subjects and to represent the most lofty of directions towards which the human mind could direct itself.   Modern science has confirmed the impact of listening to and partaking in activities such as classical music as significant assets in the development of higher level brain function, mental health and physical coordination.  (It is not uncommon for instance for surgeons to have had a  piano background.)

 

The tools and skill sets derived in learning an instrument from a traditional classical methodology provide a crucial foundation and great asset should one desire to branch out into other styles such as jazz and pop. 

 

In an increasingly desensitized world, activities such as classical music are invaluable towards creating a more well rounded individual.  It provides a great forum to practice discipline, patience, hone imagination, and foster a more collegial and nurturing environment with ones fellow human being.

 

How much time should I dedicate daily towards practice?

 

When learning an instrument, it is true that you get out it what you put into it, and as such students should be prepared to make a daily committment of at least 6 days during the week.  Practice time should be at a mimimum as long as lesson time (ie a 1/2 hour lesson should warrent at least 1/2 hour of daily practice).  For students preparing for Grade 9-10 exams, a minimum of two hours is recommended - for ARCT and above, the mimimum time committment should be three hours.  At the end of the day it is important to note that the quality of the practice is of utmost importance - practice in and of itself does not make perfect.....rather perfect practice makes perfect.

 

How important is parental involvement?

 

As with anything in life, the more interest you take in your child's development, the more fruitful and holistic the outcome.  Parents are encourgaed to sit in during lessons, and to supervise practice to the extent they are able.  Many times just being there in the room offering words of encouragement can make all the difference! 

 

Do I need a piano to start lessons?

 

 Yes!  For beginning students, a digital piano with grand piano action weighted keys capable of dynamic contrast is acceptable in the short term.  However, parents should expect to switch to an acoustic piano within the first year or two.  Serious and talented intermediate to advanced students should consider purchasing, or obtaining access to a grand piano.

 

Are there recital opportunities to share music with peers/family?

 

Yes.  Every year we have a large recital in May for all students to participate in.... and sometimes faculty.  As well, there are several performance classes held throughout the year to offer run-through opportunities in preparations for festivals/contests.   Performance can only be learned by doing and all students are encouraged to participate in these events - often students will note that the experiences in a recital considerably enhanced their confidence when having to do oral presentations as part of schoolwork.

 

When do I know I am prepared for an exam?

 

Recommendation for entrance into exams is at the discretion of the instructor.  Parents who register their child for an exam without the consent of the instructor will be refused the Academy RCM number.  Repertoire for an examination should be memorized at least 2 months in advance of the examination - for senior grades this should be extended to four months prior to the examination.   The Academy is happy to make suggestions as to the best locations to take examintions in the GTA.

 

 

Do you send students to contests/festivals - why?

 

For students who are interested in these events, yes we do, however there are right and wrong mindsets for doing festivals.   Festivals provide opportunities for students to practice the difficult art of performance, and to get feedback from respected musicians from across the country who serve as adjudicators in these events. 

 

For those believing that music is an Olympic sport and that winning at all cost is the goal, then you are eventually going to be in for a world of dissappointment and will have completely missed the communal side of what music can offer.  For those who realize that the festival process is first and foremost an educational one, and a nice forum in which to share your hard work, then the experience will be very positive.  If you honor each step along the way and prepare well, only good can come out of the festival experience.

 

Do you accept transfers from Suzuki method?

 

For piano conditionally.  The merits of the Suzuki programs for violin and piano are not equal, and as such piano students from this method often encounter difficulties adjusting to traditional methods - it is often a chore to adjust to vegetables when you have been fed only chocolate - even though vegetables are infinitely better for you in the long run.  As such, transfer students from Suzuki piano should go in to tradional private lessons with their eyes wide open and understand that there will be an adjustment period while issues of note recognition, basic rudimentary concepts, and technical deficiences are addressed.