Piano/keyboard lessons are offered at many places. There are live lessons, online programs, as well as books teaching you how to play piano/keyboard. The only problem is, if you do not know how to play piano/keyboard, you may not know what to look for in lessons. That’s what this article is here for; to help you make a better music instructor choice — specifically a piano/keyboard teacher.
The first thing to look for is the piano/keyboard teacher’s credentials. They should have a music degree or some CD that they have published with their performances. There should be testimonials or local referrals that the program actually works and that people are having success. They should currently be involved in the music industry somehow. This information should be readily available.
Then, take a look at their personality. They should be someone you can get along with and enjoy. If they make you too nervous, you should keep looking. There needs to be trust and you need to be able to relax with them. This is essential to perform, and learn, to your fullest.
The second thing to look for when evaluating piano/keyboard lessons is the way the program is set up. Will it fit into your lifestyle? Are lessons every week? Do you need to work in their schedule, or will they work with yours? Do you get a chance for makeup lessons, or do you need to pay for missed lessons? These are important things to know upfront so that you do not become disappointed later on. Believe it or not, the more professional the teacher is, the less flexible they usually are. You will probably end up paying for missed lessons, working around their schedule, and following their rules.
Find something that works with your life and gels with your music goals.
The third thing to look for is the foundation the piano/keyboard lessons are based upon. In the best lessons, there will be a methodical approach to all aspects of playing. There will be music theory, technique, warm ups, scales, and sight reading as well as improvisation. The music will include things from all key signatures, even early on. There will be an emphasis on reading notes for both hands, and chords will be taught early on. In excellent piano/keyboard lessons, many styles will be introduced and the student will be encouraged to explore many genres and change the style of playing to match the style of music.
While there are other things that should be looked at and this is not an all inclusive list, it is definitely a start. Finding an experienced piano/keyboard instructor that is ‘in tune’ with you is a big commitment and often a relationship that lasts for years.
For piano and/or keyboard lessons with experienced music teachers go to Kathryn Brickwell Music Instruction at https://www.music-instruction.com. For over 25 years they have offered both in-home or in-studio music lessons in the New York areas of Long Island, Suffolk, Brooklyn, Queens and New York City. Begin keyboard/piano lessons next week – contact Kathryn Brickwell Music today https://www.music-instruction.com, or call at 800-285-5732.