Piano & More
Teaching Philosophy
Do you look forward to your music lessons? That is the most important question for us. We want our students to leave their lesson already looking forward to the next one. Our teaching philosophy is "Music is fun, let's keep it that way" for a reason. First, because being a musician and making beautiful music is absolutely thrilling and fun! However, we can admit that getting there isn't always sunshine and roses. There are days where music is challenging and hard to understand. After all, you are practically learning a new language and at the same time, have to be physically coordinated! There's so much controlled detail when it comes to learning an instrument- it can get frustrating sometimes. But, there is a way to keep the learning process enjoyable! How can we make this happen across the board? How can we create such an experience that would naturally pull students back to their instruments?
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First, it takes a very good teacher. A teacher who knows several different approaches and teaching styles so when they find one doesn't work, they can switch gears. It takes a teacher who knows how to observe and analyze a student. What makes them excited? What does not? Teachers should build on a student's strengths first to increase their confidence, and then work on their weaknesses. It's so important to start off with excitement. Last but not least, it takes a teacher that knows how to connect with their students. We select teachers with this background, philosophy and adaptability.
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Second, it takes a good teaching model. Teachers are trained in the Piano & More teaching model (P&M for short). P&M lessons do not look like the traditional piano lessons that we were accustomed to when growing up. Music theory and traditional techniques are still incorporated, however the approach and priorities are more contemporary and relatable.
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Not Your Traditional Music Teacher...
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With the P&M teaching model, every lesson involves scales, chords, exercises, pattern training, note-reading, music theory, and ear training. We are able to show students how to learn songs quickly and play their favorite pieces very early in their training. Then we challenge them to performances, where they are introduced to other students their age and different playing styles. We show them what they can be! This is how we get them hooked to practicing. We develop strengths, increase confidence, and then focus on weaknesses.
Every teacher is trained to assess their students, so they can cater the lesson to the student's needs. Every teacher is trained to be sensitive to the student's interest and capabilities in that moment. |
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We rate our success by the interest of our students. Our goal is to get the student to want to practice on their own.