MUSIC INSTRUCTION: PIANO, THEORY
Lessons are open to students of all ages and ability levels. Lessons are taught in a one on one environment. Parents are encouraged to be at the lessons of younger students and actively participate in his or her musical growth, EVEN IF the parent has no musical backround.All lessons, whether jazz or classical, will have firm roots in classical technique. Jazz lessons in particular will include a focus in theory and ear training. Take a look at the levels described below and decide where you think you belong.
Young Beginner - Age: 6-12
Teen Beginner - Age: 13-18
Adult Beginner - Age: 19+
Intermediate-Classical
Advanced-Classical
Introduction to Jazz Piano
Jazz Piano
Jazz Piano for Classical Players
The young beginner in some ways is the easiest to mold and shape. Classical roots are the focus during this time. However, Jazz can be incorporated towards the later end of the age spectrum. A good starting age for piano lessons is around 6-7 years of age (although it is appropriate to start at any age!). Any younger, and there can be physical limitations that can make the whole experience frustrating for the child. Lessons are structured and fun at the same time. Reasonable practice is required for improvement.
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The aspect of lessons has to be 'cool' for the all-knowing teen-ager. Foundations in classical music are particularly important but there can be ways to incorporate contemporary music. Students of this age will often find themselves being recruited by the jazz band of the school since a pianist is a rare commodity. While this is an excellent opportunity, jazz is harder to absorb without a classical backround. The stundent will learn how to organize his/her time in order to accomplish lesson goals through practice.
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"I wish I would've taken lessons when I was young!" While starting young is the best way to go, there is no reason to throw in the towel. While adults have the disadvantage of starting late, time management is often much better than a 10 year-old! Even if you are a busy professional, you can make the time to learn!
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For students that have had the basic training from teaching books like Faber, Alfred, etc. Basic skills should be present like scale knowledge, posture, and minimal theory. The goal will be to have the student progress to a point where he/she will learn how to practice correctly - at a college level.
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For the student who has a high degree of musical understanding. Theory and musical form are a major topic. We will discuss the implications of these topics on performance - thus learn to be an educated performer, able to defend interpretations.
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Basic piano skills are a prerequisite. The complexity of the jazz language requires study in theory. Chord structures and voice-leading will be introduced. Competency in scales will be solidified, if not already.
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Study of chord structures and formulas with a heavy emphasis on theory, as well as; transcribing solos, and composition.
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Jazz Piano for Classical Players
Generally for the more advanced player, the skills developed in classical study are a valuable asset and will be applied to the jazz style. Study of the theory particular to jazz is required, but the theory learned in classical study will lend itself to the jazz idiom as well.
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Learn the basics in order to analyze the advanced. Theory training gives us the tools to analyze music's structure and form - like 'sonata.' Why is it called a sonata? What identifies a piece as a sonata, rondo or scherzo? Theory will cover basic chord progressions, scale-types, counterpoint, and various other areas. Once these concepts are understood, they will be applied to deciphering the structure of pieces. For the performer, having a deep understanding of the music that one is performing, can make the performing itself, more rewarding.
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So, you've just contacted the University or Music School you'd like to attend. And...they've given you the audition requirements. And...you feel like you'll never be able to do it. If you need to prepare an audition, sign up for this intensive program. The upmost dedication is required and expected. The work will be hard, and require a good portion of your time. Extra-curricular activities may need to take a back seat during this time.
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