Some Frequently Asked Questions

Where do lessons take place?

Lessons take place at the pupil's home. They can also take place online.

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Do we need a piano at home?

Yes, and I am always happy to advise on the most affordable options. 

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What else do we need?

Not much to begin with! A piano stool, a notebook for practice instructions, a pencil and an A4 folder. Once or twice a year there is some music to purchase as well.

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What precautions do you take against Covid?

This is regularly under review so do ask and I'll be glad to provide up-to-date information.

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How much time is spent practising? 

Practice for beginners does not take longer than 20 minutes (sometimes less) but needs to take place at least four times a week. 

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More advanced pupils will need slightly longer practice times to complete the instructions in their book, and always at least four times a week. Five practice sessions a week is ideal.

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I'm a parent/carer. Why is my child not practising?

There can be different reasons, but crucially practising an instrument is not like completing a weekly homework task. It will have to involve some repetition and children often feel like they have "completed" their practice for the week if they have done it once or twice. 

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I'm still that parent/carer. How do I help my child?

A weekly schedule, a daily instruction "it's practice time now!"  or a parent/carer sitting with the child during practise usually helps to create positive vibes and happy, regular practice. You don't need to have ever had lessons yourself to support practice, and I am here to help you.

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Do they need to try that scale again? A good giggle and a slightly slower attempt makes it all easier.

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Take a look at the 7 Practice Hats on my "Lessons for Children" page to find out more. 

I'm an adult. How do I compete with all these youngsters? 

Why compete? This is music. Meanwhile, see above about children practising. You can do this all by yourself, and twenty minutes a day is, well, child's play.