What To Expect
The Barnum Piano Studio utilizes a few series to fit your student’s learning style and age. From the Wunderkeys Series by Andrea and Trevor Dow, to Succeeding at the Piano by Helen Marlais, to the Piano Adventure Series by Randall and Nancy Faber, you can be sure your student is using the correct method for their learning success. Each of these series provide the student with pedagogically sound repertoire, technique, artistry and theory. Advancing students use a variety of repertoire books to fit their aspiring musicianship needs which includes music from the Baroque, Classical, Romantic and Contemporary periods.
Weekly Lessons
A friendly greeting and a smile always start our lesson together! We begin with a warm-up to get your fingers moving and your musical brain engaged! Then we move on to your technique assigned for the week! Depending on your level, we might do a sight-reading or ear training excerpt, a rhythm duet, or just hit the repertoire list. There is always something new and exciting to learn at your lesson! You can expect to have a worksheet or game assigned now and again to help you review your notation or to learn a new theory concept. Weekly lessons range from 30 to 45 to 60 minutes in length. If you are an online student, your calendar will have your lesson time booked with Zoom each week through the My Music Staff student portal. For in-person students, you will also have a Music Portal page and zoom link should the need arise for a zoom lesson throughout the year.
Group Piano Parties
During our ‘Piano Year” we get together for Group Piano Parties! During these 3 scheduled parties (Fall, Christmas and Early Spring), each student develops their skills by performing for their peers. This opportunity helps with overcoming performance anxiety, develops confidence, refines artistry, and gives the student a warm and inviting atmosphere to share their talent. At each party, we enjoy theory and rhythm games, as well as learning something new to add to our piano toolbox!
Performance Opportunities
Performing in front of your peers at our group lessons is one thing, but to polish and memorize music for an adjudicator takes your learning and expertise to the next level! Organizations like The Guild, National Federation of Music Clubs, and the Barnum Studio Spring Festival are avenues that provide each student with an opportunity to sharpen their pianistic skills. We wrap up our year with the Annual Piano Recital – always such a great time to share the beauty of music and your own personal accomplishments!
Instrument & Systems
Having an instrument that is in tune and free of repair is very important for the development of your student’s musical ear! A yearly tune will ensure that your piano stays in good condition. If you opt for a keyboard, you need one that has 88 full-sized weighted keys and comes with a pedal. Having a stand and a bench is also helpful so that your student is seated at the correct height and distance from the keyboard.
