Curriculum

Subjects taught are:

Classical Piano
Leissure/Contemporary
Theory

Music ‘Theory’ can be taken as a separate subject from piano studies, however all ‘piano’ lessons will incorporate the theory that is necessary to learn the instrument effectively, and broad music general knowledge.

I will provide direction on choosing music to play, purchasing books and sheet music, and suggest works that suit the developmental requirements of individual students, and their taste. Music can be purchased from me if you are unable to get to a music store. Students are welcome to choose their own music and bring along things they want to play.

This studio uses tablets and laptops and a part of learning and research. If you wish your child to be screen free you may choose this, however the teacher will be using technology to access recordings, backing tracks and a metronome during the lesson.

What will I/my child learn?

how to read music
the notes on the piano
how to play pieces of music
proper technique
music theory
music history
aural skills
music styles and interpretation rhythm

plus

how to practice
concentration techniques
how to perform
accountability
confident presentation
persistence
resilience

Incentives

To encourage students to aim for goals, a number of challenge programs are in place which may offer prizes, awards or recognition.

40 Piece Challenge
Learn 40 works or (significant parts of for advanced students) in a year.

Independent Learner Awards
Whilst most curriculum requires guidance and assistance, students are encouraged to have a go by themselves for particular choices, showing initiative and problem solving, and increasing the pace of their own learning.

Performance
Perform for a human in your house every week

Exams

Practical

Many students wish to play for their own enjoyment only, while others appreciate the motivation and direction that exam preparation provides, or perhaps are studying to be professional musicians.

For those students that wish to do exams, I prepare students for all levels of AMEB exams. These are the accepted benchmark in Australian examinations, and are now accepted as credits for secondary school certificates. Examinations are usually held in the familiar environment of the Redwood Park studio once or twice per year. When students are unavailable for the session Con Brio video exams will be available.

Theory

Theory exams may be done online using the Redwood Park equipment.