Frequently Asked Questions
What is meant by "flexible scheduling" for piano lessons?
Are there any other non-tuition fees?
What about recitals and piano competitions?
How old should my child be to take piano lessons?
Starting at the right age is a key element to the success of their lessons. Some people will tell you “the sooner the better” but this attitude can actually backfire and be a negative. If a child is put into lessons too soon they may feel overwhelmed and frustrated and want to stop lessons. The last thing you want to do is turn a child off music just because they had one unpleasant experience which could have been prevented. Sometimes if the child waits a year to start lessons their progress can be much faster. Children who are older than the suggested earliest starting age usually do very well.
What about group piano lessons?
Group classes work well for preschool music programs, and theory lessons. However, when actually learning how to play an instrument, private lessons are far superior, since in private lessons it is hard to miss anything, and each student can learn at their own pace. The teacher has the time and focus to work on the individual student’s strengths and weaknesses. Thus, the student is the primary focus of the teacher and have to divide their attention between 5 - 10 students at a time .
Why don't you teach piano lessons in your home?
Learning music is not just a matter of having a qualified teacher, but also having an environment that is focused on music education. In a piano studio outside the home, a student cannot be distracted by TV, pets, ringing phones, siblings or anything else. With only 1/2 to one hour of lesson time per week, a professional studio environment can produce better results since the only focus at that time is learning music.
What piano methods do you use?
I use Alfred, Faber, Hal Leonard, and Succeeding At The Piano with Helen Marlais dependent upon the student's needs and goals.
How much will piano lessons cost?
My rates are very competitive. I would be happy to discuss tuition with you if you call the studio at 319-248-2966.
Do you have more questions?
Call or text the studio at 319-248-2966, or fill out this form to ask me questions.
- Missed lessons are always made up if I am given reasonable notice.
- I schedule around the student's other activities.
- Multiple family members may be scheduled together for the family's convenience.
- Weather and health related cancellations are always made up.
Are there any other non-tuition fees?
- There are no sign up or registration fees.
- You only pay for piano lessons you take.
- There are no charges when you go on vacation during the summer or holidays
- There are no hidden fees; I only charge for lessons.
What about recitals and piano competitions?
- There are four optional recitals during the school year.
- As a member of the National Federation of Music Clubs, my students can participate in a non competitive piano festival held in February each year.
- As a member of the Iowa Music Teachers Association, my piano students may participate in a piano competition called the pre-college Auditions each February.
How old should my child be to take piano lessons?
Starting at the right age is a key element to the success of their lessons. Some people will tell you “the sooner the better” but this attitude can actually backfire and be a negative. If a child is put into lessons too soon they may feel overwhelmed and frustrated and want to stop lessons. The last thing you want to do is turn a child off music just because they had one unpleasant experience which could have been prevented. Sometimes if the child waits a year to start lessons their progress can be much faster. Children who are older than the suggested earliest starting age usually do very well.
What about group piano lessons?
Group classes work well for preschool music programs, and theory lessons. However, when actually learning how to play an instrument, private lessons are far superior, since in private lessons it is hard to miss anything, and each student can learn at their own pace. The teacher has the time and focus to work on the individual student’s strengths and weaknesses. Thus, the student is the primary focus of the teacher and have to divide their attention between 5 - 10 students at a time .
Why don't you teach piano lessons in your home?
Learning music is not just a matter of having a qualified teacher, but also having an environment that is focused on music education. In a piano studio outside the home, a student cannot be distracted by TV, pets, ringing phones, siblings or anything else. With only 1/2 to one hour of lesson time per week, a professional studio environment can produce better results since the only focus at that time is learning music.
What piano methods do you use?
I use Alfred, Faber, Hal Leonard, and Succeeding At The Piano with Helen Marlais dependent upon the student's needs and goals.
How much will piano lessons cost?
My rates are very competitive. I would be happy to discuss tuition with you if you call the studio at 319-248-2966.
Do you have more questions?
Call or text the studio at 319-248-2966, or fill out this form to ask me questions.