FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Anyone needing further information, please email Carolyne, or call 973-464-7456.
1. Do I need to own a piano?
While it would be ideal if you have a piano at home, it's not absolutely necessary. Beginner students can definitely make do on an electronic keyboard to practice on. I recommend purchasing the following keyboard:
Some specific keyboards you can search for include:
I also recommend that you purchase a bench and a keyboard stand, or do your best at home to create a practice space by placing the keyboard on a table for use with a suitable chair.
- 61 to 88 regular sized keys
- weighted, touch sensitive response keys
meaning if you press a key harder or softer, it will play louder and quieter
Some specific keyboards you can search for include:
- Casio CTK Series
- Other good brands include Roland and Kawai
I also recommend that you purchase a bench and a keyboard stand, or do your best at home to create a practice space by placing the keyboard on a table for use with a suitable chair.
- It would be best if the keyboard and bench are at the height where the student's arm from wrist to elbow is parallel to the floor.
2. Where do I purchase the music books?
Many of the resources West Essex Piano will provide for you; however each program does have required study material. I have made sure to include a photo and retail price every needed book. You have three ways to obtain them:
- Go to a local music store to purchase the items; you may need to call ahead to make sure they have them in stock
- Search online; all are available for purchase
- Purchase them through Carolyne and pay for them at the next lesson
3. How often do I need to schedule a lesson?
West Essex Piano is flexible in that you can schedule as often as you like. The norm is once a week; some clients choose to study two or more times a week in a similar way that a student would learn Science or Math more than once a week. I would not recommend less than four times a month.
4. Will there be required recitals?
No. However, if you like, West Essex Piano will offer your child a 15 to 30 minute stress-free and relaxed private recital at your home with your family and friends once they have mastered an age-appropriate repertoire. Performing recitals does allow students to gain confidence in themselves and their musical ability as well as a greater comfort in performing in front of an audience.
5. Is there a benefit to piano lessons at Home rather than in a Studio?
There is frankly no comparison to private home study and private or group studio study. The benefits include the following:
- Your child learns on their own instrument
- Your child is taught in the familiar and secure surrounding of their own home
- You do not have to continually stress over getting to an appointment on time
- You save time by not having to spend an average of 20 to 60 minutes driving to and from a studio weekly
- While a responsible individual does need to be at your home during the lesson, you save time by not having to hang out at a studio lesson
- You save money on travel costs along with wear and tear on your car
6. Is there a registration fee?
No, I don't believe in registration fees. Your charges are the lesson fees and required book purchases.
7. Are there benefits to studying the Piano?
Yes! Follow along with my blog here to read the latest on the benefits of Music Education, and in particular, of studying the piano.
