Older beginners (10+)
Older beginners are wonderful students to teach! Usually these young minds have developed a keen interest in music and long to develop their skills to fuel their budding passion for artistic expression. Older students tend to be more self-regulated, asking many questions during lessons and progressing quickly as they develop effective practice strategies through problem solving.
What to expect from lessons.
The older beginner program starts by a combination of ear-playing, movement training (think gymnastics for the fingers), and an introduction to music reading! This allows students to develop necessary movement skills for piano playing while acquiring the reading skills to help them learn music independently at home. We will choose a beginner reading method book that suits their level and musical tastes. I will supplement this material with exercises, worksheets, and pieces from my own collection.
During each lesson students will demonstrate the exercises and pieces they have practiced during the previous week. We will discuss any necessary improvements, determining if the homework was well-learned, somewhat learned, or needs improvement. We will add new techniques and pieces as they master the previously assigned tasks. After a few lessons I will start to assign "self-study" pieces that for them to learn without any help from me. We will also add on "project pieces" which are longer, more interesting pieces that may take about a month to master.
Setting up a good practice routine.
The key to success in piano lessons is setting up and reinforcing a good practice routine. The most important way parents can support their child is by reinforcing a regular schedule of practice. Just like adults, children develop routines when practice sessions are scheduled at a regular, reoccurring times. It is best if the parent can determine when those times will be and set them aside the very first week of lessons. Getting a kitchen timer or using a phone app can be a great way to help children regulate the length of practice sessions. See the Parent Resources page for more tips to help you set up a good practice routine!
What to expect from lessons.
The older beginner program starts by a combination of ear-playing, movement training (think gymnastics for the fingers), and an introduction to music reading! This allows students to develop necessary movement skills for piano playing while acquiring the reading skills to help them learn music independently at home. We will choose a beginner reading method book that suits their level and musical tastes. I will supplement this material with exercises, worksheets, and pieces from my own collection.
During each lesson students will demonstrate the exercises and pieces they have practiced during the previous week. We will discuss any necessary improvements, determining if the homework was well-learned, somewhat learned, or needs improvement. We will add new techniques and pieces as they master the previously assigned tasks. After a few lessons I will start to assign "self-study" pieces that for them to learn without any help from me. We will also add on "project pieces" which are longer, more interesting pieces that may take about a month to master.
Setting up a good practice routine.
The key to success in piano lessons is setting up and reinforcing a good practice routine. The most important way parents can support their child is by reinforcing a regular schedule of practice. Just like adults, children develop routines when practice sessions are scheduled at a regular, reoccurring times. It is best if the parent can determine when those times will be and set them aside the very first week of lessons. Getting a kitchen timer or using a phone app can be a great way to help children regulate the length of practice sessions. See the Parent Resources page for more tips to help you set up a good practice routine!
Contact Jillian to get more information or to schedule a free 30 minute consultation.
FAQ
How much should my child practice?
A motivated 10 year old should have no problem concentrating for practice sessions 20 to 30 minutes long. The minimum required practice to see progress is about 20 minutes per day at least 5 days per week. Students should be encouraged to practice past this minimum as often as they find manageable and rewarding.
Should the Parent attend the lessons?
Parental attendance is optional for students of this age. Parents wishing to stay are more than welcome. Some students enjoy the independence from their parents at this age. Once solution is for parents to attend the last 10 minutes of lessons to see what the student is working on for the upcoming week.
Should I practice with my child?
Parents should not have to sit with their student during practice at this age. Students will likely be able to progress through the material on the homework list independently. However, the presence and encouragement of a parent can be helpful at times, especially in moments of frustration.
I don't know anything about music. How can I help my child with piano?
Parents frequently worry that they will be unable to help their children because they do not know anything about music themselves. Don’t worry! Providing encouragement, displaying enthusiasm for music, and reinforcing practice schedules require no knowledge of music and are the most important way parents can support their child’s musical development. This may include asking your child to show you what they are working on, encouraging them to perform for friends and family, or listening to music with them. It will also include going over their list of piano homework in their notebook and making sure they’ve practiced everything on the list.
Is my child too old to learn piano?
No one is too old to learn to play the piano. Each student will progress according to their own aptitudes and dedication to practice. Although professional musicians often report starting to study their instrument very early, (even at the age of 2!), there are many examples of proficient musicians who started much later in life. One of my best friends is doing his doctorate in viola performance and he didn't start studying music until he was 12! Enthusiastic students will always be able to progress with dedicated and focused practice.