What is included in a branch out piano lesson?
Branch Out piano lessons can include a host of different activities. The core of a typical lesson includes repertoire and technique: playing different kinds of music and teaching the body to play comfortably and efficiently. There is also a strong focus on creativity, and students learn to improvise and compose their own music. Other important elements are sight-reading activities to practice reading notation, singing and rhythm games for aural development, exploring music theory and music history, listening to various kinds of music, and playing duets with other musicians. All this is carefully selected and tailored to each student's level.
How long are lessons?
A typical piano lesson is 30 minutes long. Most beginners, particularly young ones, will do best with lessons of this length. 45-minute lessons are also available. These are recommended for more advanced musicians, and especially for those who have started to take piano exams.
What performance opportunities are available?
Throughout the school year, Branch Out Music Studios holds four informal House Concerts at the Windsor Gardens studio. We also seek out performance opportunities for our students through festivals, competitions, and public Performance Days such as those held by the MTASA.
Do I need a piano at home to be able to take lessons?
Yes. To encourage regular practice and a sense of enjoyment when playing for fun, a good home instrument is a must. There are three main options available today: keyboards, digital pianos and acoustic pianos.
Keyboards are electric, lightweight, small instruments. Even beginners should not use them for more than a few months, as they severely restrict the piano techniques which can be learned.
Digital pianos are full-length keyboards, with weighted keys, a sturdy stand and at least one embedded foot pedal. They come in a range of models and prices and good-quality instruments can be used up to a Grade 4 level.
Acoustic pianos are the most authentic and effective instruments to learn on. They sound and feel far better to play, they will last for a lifetime if cared for, and they retain their value better than a digital instrument. They also vary the most in quality, so care should be taken with selection. It is recommended to seek the advice of a reputable music store before buying a new or second-hand instrument.
Keyboards are electric, lightweight, small instruments. Even beginners should not use them for more than a few months, as they severely restrict the piano techniques which can be learned.
Digital pianos are full-length keyboards, with weighted keys, a sturdy stand and at least one embedded foot pedal. They come in a range of models and prices and good-quality instruments can be used up to a Grade 4 level.
Acoustic pianos are the most authentic and effective instruments to learn on. They sound and feel far better to play, they will last for a lifetime if cared for, and they retain their value better than a digital instrument. They also vary the most in quality, so care should be taken with selection. It is recommended to seek the advice of a reputable music store before buying a new or second-hand instrument.
WHAT OTHER BOOKS AND EQUIPMENT DO I NEED?
Music books and a lesson diary are essential aids to learning an instrument. They are often best purchased through your teacher, who will carefully select resources based on the student's individual needs. For beginners, budget $100 per year for resources; for more advanced students and exam students, budget $200 or more.
HOW MUCH PRACTICE IS REQUIRED?
That depends on your goals. For pianists who wish to learn for their own enjoyment, a minimum is 4 to 5 practices per week at 20 to 60 minutes each. The length of practice sessions will be on the shorter side for beginners, and longer for more advanced players. This will ensure that enough consolidation happens between lessons for fluent, enjoyable playing.
Those who desire to learn with an exam and performance focus should practice 6-7 times per week, at 1 to 5 hours per practice.
Those who desire to learn with an exam and performance focus should practice 6-7 times per week, at 1 to 5 hours per practice.
HOW CAN I SUPPORT MY CHILD'S MUSICAL LEARNING?
Parental support is the single biggest factor in the success of most young piano students. The best thing you can do for your young pianist is to get involved in what they are doing. Encourage regular practice, and supervise their practice sessions if they are young. Communicate with your teacher about practice assignments and team up with them to keep the student happy and motivated. Listen to lots of music with your child, and even take them to see good concerts. Your encouragement may make the difference of a musical lifetime for your child.
WHAT IF I NEED TO MISS MY LESSON?
If you know you will be absent from your lesson for any reason, please inform your teacher as soon as possible. As your lesson time is reserved specifically for you and cannot be on-sold if you do not attend, credits and make-ups cannot be given. Alternative options include swapping times with another student, doing a Skype lesson, or sending a friend or sibling to take the lesson instead. Please contact us if you have any questions about our policies!
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