Inside the Music Studio of GraceANN

My approach to music education is holistic. Each student whether child or adult 

has talent and passion for music. My job is to perceive the depth of their talent and

help them manifest their potential in an environment that is fun, friendly and competent.

Music education in my studio offers students many opportunities to perform because music is a language of doing; sharing yourself with others through the magic of sound. I also respect those who simply want to learn music for themselves so performing is encouraged, but not required.

• My teaching fee is $30 per 1/2 hour for weekly lessons. - $60 per hour for weekly lessons.
• Books are not included in tuition

No, I do not offer zoom lessons any longer. 

How long does it take to learn piano?

That depends upon what level of proficiency you wish to achieve. You can learn Twinkle, Twinkle Little star in 1 lesson.  Learning to play piano is similar to learning a language or a sport. It takes practice, maintenance, and perseverance. Your skills grow as you use them and can be enjoyed from the very first lesson.

How much should I practice? 

Most assignments for beginners take about 10 minutes to do well. 5 days a week of 10 minute practicing will build your skills rapidly and give you the enjoyment to perform easily what you have learned. When your skills grow and the music you are learning is more complex, naturally the practice increases, but the pleasure of practice also increases.

What are listening skills? Believe it or not, listening is a skill. learning to identify musical intervals, cadences, phrases, structures, styles, rhythms, etc. is part of music education. Most students love this part the most! 

What kind of piano do I need? 

Students can start with a keyboard of 5 octaves. After 2 years that will be too small for the music that students are able to play so an upgrade to a full size keyboard of 88 keys is necessary. I always recommend getting an organic piano over a keyboard for 2 main reasons. The keyboards (even with weighted keys) do NOT respond to touch the way a real piano does. Secondly, a digital keyboard is unable to produce the resonances that a real piano creates. Because of this lack, students frequently "pound" the keys in an attempt to get the keyboard to produce fuller sounds. This hurts their fingers and their ears and does not produce more resonance.

Can I get a group rate if more than one of my children study with you? 

I really believe in the power of music education and making it accessible for anyone who is willing to invest their time and money. However, I also need to make a living so that I can continue teaching. I have been fortunate to be financially stable and keep my rates low despite the cost of living increases in Seattle. That said, I charge the same amount per person. There are no discounts for family groups because I teach one-to-one lessons, not group lessons.

How much do books cost?

Books typically run $5-$10. Beginning students usually need 4 specific starter books. Needed books after that are acquired according to progress, but a typical timeline is new books every 6 months to a year. I add the cost of the books to the monthly invoice.

How do you invoice and what payments do you accept?

I send out an email invoice on the first of each month to cover the cost of the previous month. Any books, performance fees, audition fees, competition fees, are included in the invoice. Payments are due on the 20th of each month. I accept personal check, bank transfers and PayPal.

What events are offered for students in your studio?

In addition to a quality music education with the piano I also offer students the chance to share their abilities through performance which is an important part of music education. Music is meant to be shared and the experience of performing onstage is an exciting opportunity. I offer many events from the beginner's practice recital in my home studio, to concert opportunities in various venues throughout King County. Students also have a chance to play outdoors and experience the difference in acoustics when we perform for Bach-to-the-Future.  For the serious students there are Music Learning Proficiency exams. For the career minded pianist there are competitions and masterclasses. Every student is encouraged to perform according to their own interest and not because of rigid requirements.

Photos

Below are photos of precious moments with my younger students. I also teach adults.