1. I am interested in taking piano lessons, but I don't own a piano and am a little gun shy about investing in something costly when I’m not sure what I am getting into.  Any suggestions?

The best suggestion I could make is to find a keyboard that has at least 66 keys. (You will not need the full 88 keys for at least the first year of piano lessons.) You can find a new or used keyboard anywhere from $50 to $150.   Ebay and Craigslist are both good places to look.   There is also Skip's Music, Guitar Center, and Barkers Music in Modesto.  If you discover through time that you are enjoying lessons and want to continue, you can then make a decision to upgrade to a full size, 88 note keyboard.   If you are really serious about becoming a pianist, you may want to consider making your investment count by purchasing an acoustic piano.  Keyboards are great imitators, but they will never have the capacity to imitate the touch, timbre, and vibrancy that comes from a well made piano. Warning: Don't ever buy a piano (used or new) unless you have a piano tuner, or someone who plays well, check it out. Remember, you get what you pay for, and a good piano will always go up in value if taken care of properly.

2. My child is only four years old, but is already showing an interest in music. Is she old enough to start lessons?

Studies have shown that children can actually hear music in the womb, and some seem to develop a taste for certain styles of music as a result. There is no "magic age" for when a child is ready to start lessons, but it is helpful is they are able to follow basic instructions and have a desire to learn to play. For more information about music training for the very young visit: http://www.suzukimethod.com.

3. I have heard that children who are engaged in learning a musical instrument actually learn faster and do better in school.  Is there any data to back this up?

Scientific studies have shown that music enhances a child's comprehension abilities, helps them with math concepts, assists in the development of fine motor skills, and helps to build self-confidence. Many children with special needs have been known to excel at music even though they are unable to communicate or participate in regular structured activities. In general, music enhances the lives of many children and adults as well.

4. If I start taking lessons and later decide that it is not for me, could I have the option to withdraw at anytime?

If you decide that you do not want to continue piano lessons,  all that is required is that you give a thirty day  advance notice from the day you would like to withdraw.

5. I have two children and was wondering if we could get a family discount.

In order to show fairness and consistency for all students, my policy states that I charge the same monthly rate for all students, therefore, there are no family discounts. 

6. How quickly can I be expected to excel at the piano?

Your advancement at the piano depends entirely on how much time and effort you put into practicing. If you are lax about learning, you will progress slowly. If you are highly motivated to learn, you will be learning two-handed pieces in no time.

7 How much time does my child need to practice every day?

For younger children, ages four to eight, it may work better to have them practice for ten to fifteen minutes, two times a day. Parents are encouraged to use their imagination, as well as suggestions from their teacher, to turn boring practice time into a game. (Click on the “practice tips”  link for more information). As a parent, you will be able to sense the maturity level of your child, and determine how long they are able to stay on task.

8. My son whines and complains every time I tell him that it is practice time.  I am getting tired of forcing him to play. Any suggestions?

The most important thing you can do for your child is to be a positive role model in his/her life.  If you are telling your child to go practice, you are in a rut and need to learn some helpful tips.  Click on the “Practice Tips” link on my piano lesson page. Print them out and post them in your home where you can refer to them often.  You will see amazing changes in your child’s motivation and progress if you follow these tips consistently.

Children need Positive Encouragement, Attention, and Feedback.

Here is a list of things that can be done
to encourage children to practice.

1.)    Always encourage and keep things positive.

2.)    Instead of saying, “It’s practice time,” you could say something like, “Can you play that song for me that I love so much!!”  

3.)    When a student complains about practicing, try not to argue with the student. Just be firm and say, “we’ll after you do each assignment and make a check by it, then you can (choose a reward) watch TV, have a snack, go out and play, etc)  

4.)    A working parent can create a sticker chart on the calendar.  If the student checks off all the songs she/he practiced in assignment book, he/she chooses a sticker to put on the calendar.  When the student practices for at least 5 days out of the week, he/she gets a reward. (maybe going for ice cream, etc).  

5.)    For younger children (ages 4-8) it may work better to have them practice for 10 to 15 minutes, 2 times a day, instead of sitting at the piano for 30 minutes.  

It’s not unusual for parents to become discouraged when they do not see their children practicing or progressing on the piano. Here are a few helpful tips:

Remember that children pick up on negativity or nagging.  Nagging or arguing with a child simply creates a power struggle and neither parent or child get anywhere.  The child usually will end up hating the piano.    

THE BEST THING TO DO FOR YOUR CHILD IS TO STAY POSITIVE, POSTITIVE, POSITIVE.    I can’t say this enough!  

When students say negative things like, “It’s too hard.” Or “I hate piano.”  Here are some sample responses that could help to encourage the child.

aIt may be challenging, but I know you can do it because you’re smart.

Well, let me hear you play it, I bet it’s easier than you think!!

Is it really that hard?  What part is hard about it? I want to hear the whole song

Can you sing the words to me?  

I bet you can play 5 songs in a row and sing them.

Children always feel so good when they are complimented and when they know that parents are interested in their progress.  They do anything to please. It takes conscience effort to keep the encouragement going, but it does work!!
 
Here’s my one tip to encourage parents:
There will always be good weeks as well as bad weeks, and if you expect other than this, you may be disappointed. If you ever have questions or concerns about helping to encourage your child, please call me.  Again, thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to teach your children!