Q. What should I look for in a music teacher?

A. A qualified teacher is extremely important.  Please visit the following link from the Alberta Registered Music Teachers Association for lots of helpful information:  

http://www.armta-calgary.com/ARMTA_Calgary_choosing_a_teacher_css.htm

 

Q. What kind of lessons do you teach?

A.  I believe in teaching well-rounded lessons, and tailor my lessons to fit each student.  I prepare more serious students for Royal Conservatory exams, I teach beginners using a variety of methods as well as students who prefer to do a mix of classical, contemporary and fun music.  My requirements are that each student covers the theory and technique that is standard for their level.  This not only gives students a much better grasp of music, but it also ensures that if the student ever does decide to try the RCM exams, they will have all of the knowledge they need to do well.  Also, beginner students who do note naming in theory or through flash cards learn to read music better and faster than when they just play the songs.  Only doing the latter can allow students to simply memorize the music without learning how to read it.

 

Q. How do you keep your students motivated?

A.  Along with a lot of praise and positive re-enforcement, I reward each child with a sticker for each song they learn.  I also have a practice chart in my studio where students get a star for each week they practice properly 5 days and complete all of their theory.  When they reach 5 stars, they get to pick a reward from my reward box.  Recitals and informal music parties are offered during the year to give students an opportunity to perform and have some fun.  Students are also encouraged to play fun music, such as Christmas carols, duets and contemporary music.

 

A.  For private piano, the usual age I recommend is between 5 and 8 years old.  For flute, I recommend 8 years and older.  The most important requirement is that the student is able to focus for the half hour lesson.  With flute, students younger than 8 generally do not have the breath control or lung capacity to play properly.  

 

Q.  Do I need to have a piano at home?

A.  All private piano students must have either an acoustic piano or a digital piano with a full keyboard and weighted keys to practice on.  For the preschool/kindergarten classes a smaller keyboard will also work as the focus on the lessons is different.

 

A.  Yes.  I encourage anyone who is interested in starting lessons to at least come over and meet me, see the studio and ask any questions they may have.  Interviews are done free of charge.  while trial lessons are provided at the same cost as a regular lessons.  Trial lessons are great way to determine where the student is at and put together a basic lesson plan, however in most cases it takes about a month for a student and myself to really get to know each other and for me to fully tailor my teaching to their specific needs.

 

Q.  Am I allowed to sit in on my child’s lessons?

A.  Absolutely!  After all parents are the most important advocates children have.  With younger students many parents choose to sit in on the lessons so that they can see first hand how their child is progressing, and also so that they can learn how to best help them practice at home.  Most students over a certain age prefer to come in to their lessons alone.  Some parents sit in periodically when they have the time or want to see how the lessons are going.  All students are different, so there is no right or wrong way to go.  With all my students I write out what they are supposed to be practicing along with any helpful hints or comments so that the parents can refer to it during the week.  Also, when I am not teaching I am usually available by phone and e-mail if my students and parents have any questions or concerns.

 

 

“Before my daughter even had her first lesson, Stephanie was already rooting for and working with us...in purchasing our first piano.  I had asked her advice on several used piano's that we had found and she gave us a wealth of information as well as very good advice.  Stephanie really went the 'extra mile' for a family she hadn't even met...and this is what I can say truly impressed me.  My daughter is enjoying her piano lessons immensely and tries very hard to get her lessons 'just right' so Stephanie will be proud of her.   When a student can be so excited about doing her best and trying to 'perfect' her lessons, this shows me that the teacher is encouraging, motivating and providing the positive reinforcement needed for growth and enjoyment as well.  Thank you Stephanie for providing my daughter the love of music."

~Sandra Jaeger, parent~