FAQ
Where am I located?
I am about 5 minutes away from the hospital in Rock Hill. My address is 2227 Terrell Place (zip 29732). I will drive to your home for an additional fee.
What age is appropriate to start a child with piano lessons?
I have found that age 5 is the youngest for students to learn. It depends on how long the child’s attention span is. Lessons last 30 minutes so if they can stay focused for the most part for half an hour then we can give it a shot.
Do I need a piano or a keyboard?
Either one will work, but you will definitely need one of the two. We can do a lesson or two without an instrument for the child to practice on to see if piano lessons are something they may be interested in, but daily practice is required so you will need something to practice with after that. If you own or are thinking about buying a keyboard, it is preferable that it is touch sensitive (pressing harder makes it louder) and that the keys are weighted (feels like a piano when you press the key). Also, you would want 60+ keys (a full keyboard has 88). I can give you specific model recommendations as well.
How long does is take to learn to play?
There is no set answer of how long it takes to learn an instrument. With regular practice, a basic level of playing can be accomplished in a few months. Most of my students take lessons on a long term basis because they want to constantly improve and they find the lessons enjoyable.
Am I too old to learn to play?
No! I have students from 5 to 85. Although younger brains tend to be more “plastic,” older students have several advantages. They tend to know how they learn best, have more discipline in practicing, and a longer attention span.
How much do I need to practice
First of all practice is about quality and not quantity. I teach my students to “teach themselves” in their practice sessions to ensure efficient use of their time. This results in improving faster and having more fun! That said young ones should start around 15 min a day and older children should work up to 30 min a day.
How long should the lesson last?
In general I start students of all ages out with 30 minute lessons. As you advance, more lesson time is required. I tell adults to choose their lesson length by how much time they have to practice in each week.
Do you have references?
I certainly do. Just ask and I can give you the email/phone numbers of some of my current students and or colleagues should you wish.
Are the parents allowed to watch?
Absolutely! In fact it is probably best if at first you are in the room with us so you can assist later with piano practice at home. Some parents like to wait in the living room and other like to leave and run errands. Either of those is fine as well.