Every student is unique. So here at Premier Piano we believe it stands to reason that there cannot be a one-size-fits-all approach to piano tuition. That’s why we don’t use traditional method books, nor do we insist on the necessity of doing exams. Instead, every student’s course of study is fully bespoke to their individual needs and strengths, be they beginner, intermediate, or advanced. Every lesson, we provide the appropriate learning materials for the next stage. We’ll also provide the folder to keep them in, and a notebook to keep track of your progress and practice. In short, we take care of everything and allow our students to focus on what matters.
“Skill-based learning is exponential”
This quote from Robert Durso sums up our ethos and approach. There’s more to learning the piano than just learning to read sheet music. That forms just one part of the puzzle when developing your skillset as a classical pianist, because we don’t just need to learn to read what to play, but also how to play it.
Acquisition of real skills is what leads to a true education, development, and progress. We therefore take a multifaceted approach to lessons. Rather than sitting looking at a method book, I use multiple pieces taught both by rote and through reading, and a variety of activities to develop movement & technique, theory (both aural and written), and musicianship. This allows students to develop real understanding and mastery of the multitude of the skills that go into a real piano playing facility.
Students learn the vital physical motions required to play in a healthy, co-ordinate, and fluent manner; learn appropriate music theory; develop listening skills, and more in order to understand each of these skills in their own right, and how they coalesce.
“Practice makes perfect”
This age old maxim isn’t always true – we have to make sure that we are mindfully practicing the right things in the right way! Practice is a pivotal skill and is at the heart of the work of a musician. It is not possible to progress without it. We teach the skills required commensurate with each student’s age and level, and provide clear and concise instructions on what needs to be done week to week. In this sense teacher and student are a team, and we encourage our students to take PRIDE: Personal Responsibilty in Developing Excellence. For school-age students, parental encouragement and support is vital. For very young students, a parent or guardian sitting in on lessons, particularly at the early stages, is the key to success.
For piano lessons, a tuned acoustic piano and an adjustable stool are ideal. At a minimum, there should be a digital piano with 88 weighted keys, secure wooden stand (not an x-frame stand), pedals, and an adjustable stool. Keyboards are not sufficient.