Students who study the piano become acquainted with one of the richest and most profound musical traditions on the planet, the western Classical tradition. The aesthetic balance of Mozart, the dramatic power of Beethoven, the subtle interplay of parts in Bach and the artistic contributions of many other composers all await discovery by students of the piano. Piano music by the great composers has the power to engage the intellect, stir the emotions and delight the spirit of anyone with the curiosity to explore and discover it.

But piano is not limited to Classical music. The intricacies of Jazz chords and melodies, the creativity of improvisation, the energy of Rock, the variety and amazing potential of electronic keyboards are all available to the student of piano.

Piano is the most common first instrument for students. Many students start with 2 or 3 years of instruction in piano before moving to another instrument. Piano is perhaps the best instrument for familiarizing students with the way music of all styles is structured and organized. This understanding of the “nuts and bolts” of music provides a significant advantage to students as they carry on with music instruction at school or with private instruction in other instruments.

The lessons consist of instruction in piano technique, style and the essential skill of reading music. Students begin with an introductory program in which they learn the basics. Students progress through the program at their own pace and are guided by their teacher on how to practice efficiently and effectively.

In addition to practical instruction students also follow a music theory program. In the early stages music theory involves the principles of musical notation and the basics of rhythm, chords and scales. As students advance in the study of music theory they learn about musical form and structure, chord progressions, harmony, music history and composition.

After the introductory program many students choose to participate in the Royal Conservatory of Music Exam Program and/or Ottawa Music Festival competitions. Students are guided by their teacher throughout the preparation for piano examinations or festival competitions. We encourage participation in these programs because they help students to achieve their true potential, encouraging them to develop and keep high standards for their own playing. Participation in these programs is entirely optional.

Students will often learn conservatory music without taking exams or competing in festivals. Learning conservatory repertoire is an excellent way for students to discover the best of the western musical tradition, surveying it historically in its many moods, styles and flavours while developing their reading skills and deepening their understanding of the theory of music.

Students may also learn to play popular music, Jazz, Rock and Blues. Students who take an interest in these styles can go on to learn how to improvise at the piano and how to play by ear.

We normally accept piano students as young as six years old. We will take students younger than that if they appear to be ready for private instruction but we would usually recommend one of the excellent group programs for younger children as a preparation for private lessons.

The best type of instrument for piano students is an acoustic piano (either upright or grand). However, many of our students start their lessons on an electronic keyboard and this is also quite acceptable. Electronic keyboards are adequate for young students to learn their way around the keyboard and how to read music. They have the advantages of being more compact, they are usually less expensive and they can be played with headphones if desired. They do have disadvantages however. The keys on an electronic keyboard usually require less strength to play (the action is much lighter). As a result, a student’s playing technique does not develop as well as on a heavier piano action. Also, electronic keyboards do not have the same expressive sensitivity as acoustic pianos. As students progress and strive to play more expressively this becomes more and more of an issue. If you do not yet have a keyboard please feel free to contact us for more tips on choosing an appropriate instrument.