Private Lessons FAQ’s
1) What is your background/experience?
I have played piano since the age of 7, and guitar since the the age of 16. I graduated from Berklee College of Music with degrees in Performance and Music Business. I have been teaching privately since 2009, to all ages and ability levels. In addition to my teaching, I’m an active professional musician.
2) What styles of music do you teach?
I can teach any style of music up to an intermediate level. Rather than focusing on specific kinds of music, I believe in teaching fundamental skills and concepts of theory which a student can apply to any music they choose. Advanced students can discuss their background and goals so we can create a personalized lesson plan.
3) How long/frequent are lessons?
Lessons are typically purchased in 30 minute, 45 minute, or 1 hour increments; and we meet at least once a week.
4) My schedule is erratic. Do I have to commit to weekly lessons?
Weekly lessons are ideal for your development, and especially for children. If you’re an adult who just can’t make it that often we can discuss other options, but weekly is best.
5) Are online lessons as effective as in-person? A computer interaction can never match what you will get face to face, but I put just as much passion into online lessons as I do in-person.
6) Is my child old enough to begin lessons?
5-6 years old is appropriate for most students; but every child is unique and matures differently. I’ve had a few students as young as 4 years. I originally started piano lessons at the age of 6, but I wasn’t ready and my teacher made me wait a year. We can assess your child’s potential during the trial lesson. Online lessons are challenging for young students, so a parent may have to participate with them.
7) Do you teach special-needs children?
I’ll teach anyone who wants to learn. I do not have formal training in special-needs education, but I’ve had ADHD and autistic students who have done very well. In fact, I’ve observed that the personalities of some special-needs learners are ideal for musical training.
8) I’m an adult student with no musical background. Is it too late for me to learn a musical instrument?
You’re never too old to learn something new. I’ve had students in their 80’s. Bring a positive attitude and let’s make it happen!
9) How much should I/my child practice?
How good do you want to be? Music is like any pursuit: you will get out of it what you put into it. The most important thing is consistency. Daily practicing, even for short periods of time, will yield the best results. You cannot cram for your music lessons like a test at school. Musical training is much like athletic training. You must maintain a regular schedule to stay in shape. Make your music part of your normal life and aim to practice every day. Start with 20-30 minutes. If your child can’t sit still that long it can be shorter, but make it a daily routine. When you do have to miss a day it’s not a great loss if you practiced yesterday and plan to resume tomorrow.
10) How can I enhance and encourage my child’s musical development?
Just be involved, and monitor their musical progress like regular schoolwork. Make sure they understand music practice should be approached like any other homework: daily, and ideally at a designated time. Since I am only seeing your child for 30-60 minutes a week, their greatest improvements will come from practice outside of the lesson. I always welcome parents to sit in on the lessons so they know what is being done. Finally, inspire your child by exposing them to great music. It’s unfortunate that, when I ask children about the music they like and want to learn, many struggle to answer. They’ve never heard music which relates to the instrument they are trying to learn.
11) Will I have to purchase method books?
Most likely, yes. I find it best to teach out of method books, though we may incorporate other material if you’re an adult student.
12) I/my child want to learn guitar, but I’ve heard it’s best to start on piano first. Is this true?
Certainly there is logic in this. The knowledge gained from piano study will enhance the learning of guitar or any other instrument. However, piano is not a prerequisite. It’s best to pursue the instrument you are most enthusiastic for. However, for very young children the instant gratification that comes from hitting a piano may be more enjoyable than attempting to fret guitar strings.
13) What kind of guitar should I buy: electric or acoustic? Steel string or nylon?
This decision comes down to your personal preference. What kind of music do you like? Each instrument presents unique challenges and advantages, but the fundamentals are the same for all. Please read this for more information: Guitar Materials for New Students
14) I’m an adult student who just wants to learn my favorite songs as quickly as possible. Do I need to read music?
You don’t have to read music in order to play it, and I never force students to learn things they don’t like (for very long); but I will encourage you to learn some basic reading skills.
15) Do you have recitals?
As a free-lance teacher I do not have the resources or access to suitable locations to put on recitals.
