How old do you have to be start music lessons?

Typically, children start private music lessons between the ages of 5-9 depending on the instrument. The most common choices for private lessons are piano/keyboard, guitar, and ukulele. The guitar also offers the convenience of smaller scale instruments for younger beginners. Students wishing to learn to play wind instruments such as trumpet, trombone, and saxophone generally start after age 10 due to the physical requirements some of these instruments pose.

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Do students need to own an instrument to take lessons?

Yes, without having an instrument, a student will not be able to practice, grow and progress in what they learn each week. Some instruments are more affordable than others, however there are great rental programs out there.

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How long does it take to learn to play an instrument?

Growth in learning a new instrument is dependent on regular practice. Stephen highly recommends setting goals with a notebook to keep track. New students with regular practice should see growth quickly, however, it is important to understand that the study of music is a long-term process.

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How does a student prepare for the Royal Conservatory Exams?

Working with an RCM Certified Teacher is a great way to get through the program!  Stephen is an RCM Certified Teacher for Guitar and Piano, and can teach and prepare your child for the Royal Conservatory Exams. Currently Stephen can teach the following levels:

• Classical Guitar, Levels Preparatory - ARCT 

• Piano, Levels Preparatory - 4 

• Music Theory, all Levels: Rudiments, Harmony & History
   

I'm interested in Piano Lessons, can I use a Keyboard instead?

Traditional acoustic pianos and weighted-action digital pianos are the preferred instruments of choice for long term study of the piano. There is a range of options from $1,000 digital pianos from Costco to $5,000 brand new acoustic pianos. The reason Stephen recommends an acoustic/digital piano is for the real-life experience it gives; a keyboard isn’t weighted and thus when performing a student can be thrown off and play completely different.  This can be a stressful experience for a student that can be avoided.

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However, understanding the financial and space considerations around purchasing a piano, a keyboard could be utilized short term for beginner students only. If the student wishes to pursue RCM certifications, then upgrading as soon as possible would be key to their successful performances in the examinations.

 

What is the best instrument to learn on?

The one you or your child is excited about. Sometimes Stephen will teach a student both Guitar and Piano so they can get a feel for the differences in sound, technique and style of music. Being interested in the instrument is a key motivator to ensuring they practice in between lessons.

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What is the best type of Guitar to learn on?

Most of the technique is the same across the different styles of Guitar. First, determine the style of music you would like to play, and then match the instrument. Enjoying the music you play is key to growth and progress as a student. If you are interested in Rock & Pop music an Electric guitar will suit you, however be aware that you will also need an amp. If you are interested in country and acoustic music, an acoustic guitar is the best selection. If you enjoy classical, Spanish or flamenco music then a classical guitar is the right option.

 

What are the rates for lessons?

$35 for half hour, $52.50 for 45 minutes, $70 for 1 hour.

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Can I attend my child's lesson?

Yes, you can. There is a comfortable couch and chairs for you to sit and observe quietly.

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What if I am sick or my child is sick?

Stephen understands that life happens, but has a large studio at this time.  Missed lessons from illness can be avoided by having an online lesson, ensuring good health for the instructor and other clients of the studio.  Students are to not attend lessons in-person if sick.  Not attending the lesson results in forfeit of the lesson.

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How do I pay for lessons?

Stephen accepts payment via e-transfer or cash. Lesson booking is done by submitting payment for one month of lessons and is on the first of the month. While we hope you will sign up for a year, lesson renewals are monthly, so you can cancel at anytime.  Any missed lessons are forfeit once scheduled.

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Any lessons already paid for are non-refundable, Stephen will work with you to schedule in any remaining lessons you may have.  30 days written notice is required for quitting lessons.

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