developing character through perseverance
Piano Lessons
Advantages of studying with a registered music teacher
I’m a member of ARMTA. I therefore have access to the ARMTA bursary, scholarships, competitions, and award programs.
My students are encouraged to ask me if they are interested in applying for any of these programs.
Alberta Registered Music Teachers' Association (ARMTA) has a comprehensive screening process
The ARMTA Examining Board has validated my professional qualifications
A music degree from a recognized post-secondary institution
Specialized and advanced-level training in at least one practical solo instrument
Ongoing membership requires a police check and a vulnerable sector check every five years
What are some of the many benefits of learning to play the piano?
on the brain
Increases IQ, improves memory, brain speed, sharpens concentration and focus, develops abstract reasoning skills, improves counting and math skills
on the psyche
Boosts confidence, encourages creativity, decreases stress and anxiety, promotes a sense of balance and relaxation
on the body
refines motor skills, aural skills, increases hand strength and finger dexterity, improves eye-hand coordination
Playing the piano activates the brain in ways that no other
game, gadget, instrument or tool does.
Learning to play the piano builds good habits because it requires patience, focus and perseverance. For the same reasons, learning to play the piano takes time. Expect to study for years, not weeks or months.
Why Learning Music on the Piano is the Best Place to Start
The layout of the keyboard is the only instrument that displays the visual representation of notes, chords, scales and key signatures.
A piano contains seven octaves, which means that you learn both the treble clef and the bass clef. This knowledge can then be transferred to any instrument.
It’s easy to press a key. This requires no pitch control, embouchure or finger patterns on strings. If you can press a button, you can play the piano.
Both melody, harmony and accompaniment can be played all at the same time by one single person.
My Music Philosophy
Don’t expect to learn in a few weeks or months.
Do expect to study for a few years.
Don’t expect to just come to lessons and that’s all.
Do expect to practice regularly at home.
Don’t expect that you will be satisfied learning to play on a small electric keyboard.
Do expect to have regular daily access to a full piano, whether it be accoustic or electronic.
Don’t expect to attend lessons sporadically whenever you feel like it.
Do expect to attend lessons once a week, same day and time every week.
It can be easy to become overwhelmed with the rigours of accuracy and perfection that are required to become an excellent musician. It is necessary for the player to look beyond the printed page to include fundamental knowledge and artistic expression as a part of their playing experience. For that reason, students will be encouraged to enhance their learning experiences in the following manner:
Play with Passion
When performing, a pianist should be able to convey images and feelings. Rather than just playing static pitches (unless so indicated in the music), students will be encouraged to bring the music to life, adding vitality and emotion.
Be Creative
Once basic fundamentals have been introduced, students are highly encouraged to exhibit their own creativity by composing their own works. While doing so, they will be expected to follow the theory of music and create their own musical imagery. On occasion, they will be asked to transcribe and/or record their work.
Create Successes
Students who languish on a specific piece of music may become discouraged, frustrated, and eventually give up, even to the point of turning their back on the instrument. It is important therefore, that students learn pieces that are challenging but within their ability to learn and master. Once this success has been accomplished, only then will players will feel encouraged to continue and move forward to other challenges.
Solid Theoretical Background
In order to play a musical instrument properly, one needs to know the language. For this reason, students are introduced to the theory of music in tandem with working on the piano. This is a very important component and it is given appropriate amounts of time.
to play without passion is inexcusable."
