Question 1

Do you give free trial or consultation lessons?

Accepted Answer

No.
 
The first lesson you book for yourself or your child is considered your "trial" or "consultation" lesson. This allows you to try me out as a teacher and to see if we can potentially work well together as a team. It is a no-string-attached, one-off payment. 
 
You can decide after your first lesson whether you'd like to take up a regular lesson slot. More information will be sent to you if you do decide to join the piano studio.

Question 2

Do I need a piano before I start taking piano lessons?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you will ideally have a piano at home before coming to my studio for your consultation lesson.

Question 3

What piano should I buy?

Accepted Answer

While there are many digital options out there, if your space and budget allow, always opt for an acoustic piano. I highly recommend Mark Goodwin Pianos,(https://www.markgoodwinpianos.co.uk) where my own Yamaha U3 came from. For many years, I have sent my pupils, family and friends to Mark when looking to buy an acoustic piano.

Question 4

Do you teach at pupils' homes?

Accepted Answer

No, unfortunately, my teaching schedule does not allow me the time to do so. 
 
All lessons will be held at my home.

Question 5

What do I need to bring to my first piano lesson?

Accepted Answer

If you have any piano music, books or photocopied sheet music, do bring them along. Otherwise, you'll only have to come with a notebook, trimmed fingernails and a lot of enthusiasm.

Question 6

Can I buy "X" number of lessons as a gift?"

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can. 
 
Send me a message on the "Contact me" page, let me know how many lessons you'd like to buy as a gift. 
 
The minimum number of lessons to buy as a gift is 2. There is no maximum number of lessons you can buy.

Question 7

Do I have to learn to read notes?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is very important for pupils to learn to read notes in order to become a competent musician.

Question 8

How long is my piano lesson?

Accepted Answer

I offer 30-, 45- and 60-minute lessons. The length of a lesson depends on the age and level of the pupil. 
 
Rough guidelines:
Young beginners: 30 minutes
Adult beginners & pupils taking exams: 45-60 minutes

Question 9

How long will it take for me to learn to play (insert name of music)?

Accepted Answer

This really depends on how much practice you are willing and able to put in. The more effectively you practise, the quicker it will be for you to achieve your piano-learning goals.

Question 10

Do I have to take piano exams?

Accepted Answer

While piano exams are a good way to set piano-playing goals, it is not compulsory. Many pupils are pushed towards passing piano exams year after year and miss out on the chance to explore different repertoire that are out there and that is a pity. Pupils will not be pressured into taking piano exams if they don't want to.

Question 11

I used to play the piano up to Grade 4, can I start doing Grade 5 now?"

Accepted Answer

It all depends on how long ago that was and whether you have kept up with the playing and practising. Most people usually pick up from their level again if they put in the time and work, and effectively practise towards achiveing their goals.

Question 12

Am I too old to start learning the piano?

Accepted Answer

No one is ever too old to start learning the piano. You just need motivation, desire to learn and succeed and determination.

Question 13

Do you offer any discounts?

Accepted Answer

No, I don't offer any discounts. Sorry.