Piano Instruction
For 7-year-olds and up
In an innovative approach which combines the fun of group dynamics with the advantages of regular, individualized attention, each student attends a one-hour class and a half-hour private lesson each week for the first 2 years.
After the 2nd year, the private lesson time is extended, and classes meet less often, but the group/private experience is preserved for its advantages over private-only instruction. Free, no-obligation interviews for school-aged children are scheduled during June for the following fall.
Readers (Years 1 & 2: Time to Begin - The Music Tree 2B)
Students meet for a one-hour class and a half-hour private lesson weekly. A two-year, sequential music and movement program is strongly recommended as a prerequisite. Placement interview required.
Tuition per year: $1700
Beginner Class: Thursdays at 4:30
Lessons preferred on Mondays and Tuesdays
Advanced Beginner Class: Mondays at 4:30
Lessons preferred on Thursdays and Fridays
Explorers (from Year 3: The Music Tree 3-4)
Students have a 45-minute private lesson weekly, and alternate-week one-hour classes. Completion of Years 1 & 2 or placement interview required.
Tuition per year: $1900
Intermediate and Advanced Repertoire Classes
Alternate Weeks, Thursdays at 4:30
Performers (Higher Level Students)
Students have weekly lessons and monthly performance classes. Generally for high-level/advanced students. Completion of The Music Tree Part 4 or placement interview required.
Tuition per year:
45-minute Lesson: $1900
60-minute Lesson: $2200
Pre-Performance Class: Monthly, Wednesdays, 4:30-5:30
Performance Class: Monthly, Sundays, 3:00-4:30
FAQ
Who can join?
Young, beginning piano students (generally 2nd graders), especially those who have completed a two-year, sequential, early childhood music and movement program.
What are the advantages?
A one-hour class: peer contact, performance experience, group activities related to rhythm, note-reading, listening skills and practice techniques.
A half-hour private lesson: regular, individualized attention to follow-up on the class assignment, with attention to hand and body position, musicality and interpretation, repertoire development, reinforcement of practice skill in specific areas as needed.
When and where are the classes and lessons?
All classes and most lessons meet at our studio. The program takes place for 30 weeks (September-June) on Mondays and Thursdays. Class time is 4:30-5:30pm; lesson times vary. If the class meets on Mondays, students will have their private lesson on Thursday-Saturday. If the class meets on Thursdays, students will have their private lesson on Monday-Wednesday
Why do we have to come twice a week?
One of the biggest challenges for beginning music students is learning how to practice. In the formation of new skills and habits, seven days is too long for a child to wait for effective reinforcement. In addition to teaching excellent practice skills, this winning combination of peer group dynamics and individual attention, using a state of the art method taught by a highly trained teacher, results in the best possible first experience in formal music lessons for you and your child.
How will I know if my child is ready?
Free (no obligation) interviews will be held in June. You will receive a recommendation following the interview. Call in May for an appointment.
How can I sign up?
After being accepted into the program, pay a nonrefundable deposit equal to 1/9 of the annual tuition (+ $25 Registration Fee) by August 1. Sign a monthly or quarterly payment plan for the balance.
What happens after the second year?
Starting in the third year of study, students receive a 45-minute lesson each week, in addition to an alternate-week Repertoire Class, which meets Thursdays at 5:30. Usually in the fifth or sixth year, after completing Parts 1-4 of The Music Tree by Frances Clark, students graduate to the monthly Performance Class, which meets on Wednesday evenings.
What are the teachers' qualifications?
All teachers are highly experienced musicians, with strong backgrounds in music education. Many have graduate degrees and are active in performing as well as teaching. Bios...
Registration
Registration form for new piano students is available at interview. All piano fees cover 30 weeks of instruction. 1/10 of Annual Fee is required at registration to reserve a lesson time. Remaining balance may be divided into either 3 or 9 equal payments.
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