Piano Q & A with Stacy

What makes your studio different from most music schools?
A warm, friendly atmosphere.  From the beginning, I wanted to create a fun, non-threatening environment for the students.  A parent made a comment once that she felt very comfortable coming to the studio.  Many parents don’t play the piano themselves and feel very intimidated by some music schools.  When we moved from our home to our current location, I wanted to re-create that same “at-home” atmosphere.  Our waiting room is very kid-friendly.  Kids can do homework or play games while waiting for siblings.  The classrooms are colorful and fun.  It feels like home.

How do you evaluate the progress of each student? 
The teacher carefully assesses all students each week through observation of written and oral responses.  A final test is given near the end of each level covering all material presented in that level.

How do you accommodate students who are progressing faster or slower than the rate of the other students in the class? 
Students are always encouraged to challenge themselves by playing more music or by memorizing songs each week.  Students may also be moved during the semester to a class that better fits their individual needs. 

Do students have opportunities to perform? 
Yes.  We have two recitals each year.  Our Christmas recital is held in the classrooms in December.  Family & friends are invited to attend. We also have a Spring Recital in May that is held in our performance room at the studio.  In both recitals, each student has the opportunity to play one solo piece and the class plays several ensemble pieces together.  Our privately taught students each play a solo and a duet with their teacher.  We present awards for the year at the Spring Recital.  We also have a Solo Festival each year in March.  Students who have completed at least one year of piano are eligible to participate.

How long should a student take group piano? 
We teach group piano through level 3.  Students begin private lessons at our studio once they have completed level 3.  Then, students are encouraged to continue through private instruction until they reach the playing level desired.

What if my child drops out before the end of the 1-year course?  Do I have to pay the total tuition? 
We encourage parents to commit to completing the 1-year course.  When you sign up, you’re reserving a spot for the entire year that cannot be replaced by another student.  If unforeseen circumstances cause you to have to drop, you are required to pay through the end of the month in which the studio is notified of your termination.  A $50 drop out fee will be charged.

Do you offer an incentive or awards program? 
Students are awarded tickets each week for practicing, music memory, good behavior, etc. Tickets can be cashed in each month for prizes.  We also have a Memory Club.  Students can become a member of the club by memorizing 5 or more songs and receive a certificate at the end of the year.  Students also receive a ribbon and certificate for completing each year.  Students who complete 5 years receive a trophy and their name is displayed on our “graduates” plaque.

Do you offer classes through the summer?   
A one-year course begins in mid August and runs through the end of July.  We offer summer private lessons as an option to our current students.  We also offer fun camps during the summer.  A complete list of our summer programs is published in March.  

Do you offer any private lessons at your studio? 
Private lessons are offered only to students who need additional help, who have completed level 3, or when an appropriate class is not available.

How many students are in a class? 
Our beginner classes are limited to 8 students.  Our intermediate/advanced classes are limited to 4 students.

Do you use method books other than Mayron Cole? 
Yes.  In addition to the Mayron Cole method book, students receive a Christmas book and a book of classical pieces for recitals each year.  Students in levels 4 and up also receive additional method books.