Q: Do I need to have any music experience to sign up for lessons?

A: Absolutely not! We teach children and adults who have never touched a piano all the way up to advanced performers. In our first lesson, we will evaluate where you are in your music journey and discuss your musical goals.

Q: What instruments do you teach?

A: We currently offer voice or piano lessons, two of the most useful instruments whether you enjoy classical or contemporary music.

Q: What materials are needed for online music lessons?

A: All students need is a simple 3-ring binder to hold their sheet music, a basic electronic device that can connect to the Internet (laptop, iPad, smart phone, etc.), and some kind of stand or table to set the device on – this allows us to see the student playing piano or singing. Check out our basic online setup tutorial for more details.

Q: Should I start with piano or voice lessons?

A: Piano is an excellent place to start for anyone interested in experiencing music. It provides a solid foundation in music theory, sight-reading, and playing. I typically recommend students to be 7 years or older before beginning piano lessons, as they will be in a more optimal state for learning at this age – though I have taught some precocious children younger than that.

Voice lessons are a great way to build confidence and communication skills. They can be an opportunity to develop stage presence and learn how the body works to produce healthy singing – a discipline similar to how athletes train their bodies. Because of the more abstract nature of learning how to sing, I usually recommend students be around 8 years or older before starting voice lessons, but each child is completely unique.

Q: Where do I find the music I need for lessons?

A: When you enroll in lessons, we will send you information regarding where to purchase music. Along with this, you can visit our online store to find additional piano and vocal books I utilize in lessons. I also have various arrangements and collections of music for sale. Any music, karaoke tracks, or games that we purchase for you will be covered by the sheet music deposit (for more details on the sheet music deposit, see our Studio Policy)

Q: What kind of piano should I use for piano lessons?

A: There are several factors to keep in mind when finding a suitable piano for lessons –

1. Number of Keys: Pianos come in many different sets of keys. While 54 keys (4 octaves) is the minimum requirement for lessons, I would highly encourage purchasing a full 88-key piano so that the student is not hindered from playing certain advanced works later on that incorporate the far ends of the piano.
2. Weighted/Semi-Weighted Keys: This refers to the resistance of the keys, imitating the weight of a real acoustic piano. The weightedness of keys creates a smoother tactile experience found uniquely in playing piano. Semi-weighted is strongly recommended, and a fully weighted set is even better.
3. Touch Sensitivity: While the weighted aspect of keys refers to how heavy the keys feel, touch sensitivity describes the level of volume determined by how soft or hard the keys are played. This makes for more creative, artistic expression when playing. Touch sensitivity is very important in choosing a piano.
4. Voices (Other Instrument Sounds): Electric keyboards can be beneficial for their wide range of electronic sounds that cover an array of both standard and unconventional instruments; digital pianos (which look like upright pianos but are electronic) tend to have far fewer voices, but boast a higher piano sound quality.
5. Portability: For more active performers, electric keyboards can be essential for their ease of transport. More casual home performers may prefer a standard acoustic piano (upright or grand) or a digital piano that combines elements of electric keyboards with the physical design of an upright piano.
6. MIDI-Functionality: This refers to if a keyboard can be plugged into a computer. Incredibly worthwhile for songwriters, MIDI can be used to record music and even convert what is played into digital sheet music through use of MIDI software. For less tech-savvy students, MIDI is certainly not a necessity for lessons.

Q: How do payments for music lessons work?

A: Students/parents can pay securely online using our SSL-Certified encrypted portal. Payments may be made through PayPal, debit or credit card, or by mailing a check to the address provided (please inform us if interested in paying by check). Payments are due before the start of each month (read our Studio Policy for more details).