For Parents

For Parents

I wrote these articles for parents of my young students. They address questions I am commonly asked.

For important information about piano learning materials and my approach to teaching music reading, please see articles in my "Resources" category.

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Awards Given at Musicale

Q: What type of awards can be given, at the end of year Musicale?

I prepare for the Musicale by printing out a myriad of award certificates. These might be for everything from a Beethoven award, an improvising award, a "practical application of music theory award," to practicing awards (for the sheer amount of time spent practicing) and perfect attendance certificates. Awards are often given not only for the amount of practice, but also for the quality of practice.

Parents Attending Group Lessons

Q: Should parents also attend group lessons for young piano students?

In our studio, parents of young beginning piano students are strongly encouraged to attend group lessons as observers. It's a wonderful way for parents to experience how the teacher presents the components of music young students are learning and witness types of teaching approaches being used. When students perform pieces in the group lesson, their fellow classmates serve as a built-in audience. The group of listeners is augmented when parents are also in attendance, plus they have an opportunity to hear and enjoy the many musical performances given by young students.

Curriculum for Young Keyboard Students

The following elements are included in a well-rounded and comprehensive keyboard curriculum for young beginners:

MUSIC READING
MUSIC THEORY
LIMITED ROTE TEACHING
EAR TRAINING
IMPROVISATION
COMPOSING
RHYTHM
MUSICAL INTERPRETATION
PRACTICE TECHNIQUES
HOW MUCH TO PRACTICE
SIGHT PLAYING
TECHNIQUE
TRANSPOSITION
HARMONIZATION
MUSIC ARRANGING
MUSICAL VOCABULARY
FORMAL AND HARMONIC ANALYSIS
ENSEMBLE PLAYING
MEMORIZATION
MUSIC HISTORY

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