Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I have to wait until the next term to start classes?
A: No. You may join any class at any time, providing the class is not to full capacity.
Q: Why is tuition for 18 weeks?
A: Starting an instrument is a serious responsibility, both for the student and the teacher. Eighteen weeks is the perfect time to give the student a good grasp of the subject material.
Q: Can I form a private group class?
A: Yes! If you have a selected group of people interested in taking a class together, please contact our office to schedule a private group class time. You must have a minimum of four students enrolled. (Homeschoolers, day-care, preschools, retired friends, etc.)
Q: Does studying music really make you smarter?
A: We think so! Read more here.
Q: Why is it recommended and encouraged for the parent or guardian of a registered student to attend classes with the student?
A: Parental/guardian attendance is required for our younger students, and requested for older students for many important reasons. With our young students, the parents are very involved within the class itself. This includes assisting their child with the instruments, understanding directions from the teacher, and showing respect to others in the class. Parents/guardians get to learn the basics of music along with their child. This is essential so that the parent/guardian can assist with home practice. Learning anything new requires repetition, and not just any repetition, but CORRECT repetition. (For group classes, students have five musical elements to practice everyday.) Finally, this is an investment in your child's future. Showing your support in their endeavor gives students the confidence to take musical risks and to excel.
Q: What ages and levels do you teach?
A: We teach from mature 2 year-olds through adults, beginner to advanced. Piano classes focus on teaching the beginning piano students, while private lessons cater to the intermediate and advanced students. All students are welcome to participate in recitals. If you are unsure where to place your student, please call our office at (804)427-7747 for an individual placement appointment.
Q: Do I have to own a piano?
A: No. During the beginning stages of learning the piano, it is acceptable to have a piano, digital piano, or keyboard. However, if a student decides they want to study the piano further, it is of utmost importance to have a solid instrument at home for practice. Piano dealers, such as Jordan Kitt's offer a rental program with the money going towards a purchase should the student continue. This is a wonderful compromise to have a high quality instrument along with the reassurance if a student discontinues.
Q: What if I cannot afford tuition?
A: The Piano Academy offers a monthly payment plan to assist families.
Q: Can I quit at any time?
A: Students may quit at any time, however, they are responsible for the full term tuition. Starting an instrument is a serious responsibility, both for the student and the teacher. We highly recommend students to stay through the full term. Learning the music for an entire term teaches discipline, character, and evokes a sense of accomplishment!
Q: Why do we have to sing?
A: The Piano Academy group lessons focus on teaching the ENTIRE musician. This includes understanding fully the concept of listening and the function of tonal music. Early aged classes sing more as they are still in the learning process of reading. Older beginners will sing as well to learn pitch relationships, and to assist with the link between listening and performing on the piano.
Q: What if my student is too advanced or too far behind in a class?
A: Students at any time may be bumped up to another level class. This is not uncommon as we all have different learning speeds. If a student becomes behind in a particular class, the teacher will work hard to assist any needs the student may have.