Question 1

Where do the lessons take place?

Accepted Answer

Lessons take place in my home studio in Sapulpa, OK.

Question 2

What lesson length do I need?

Accepted Answer

Most students ages 3 and up begin with 30 minute lessons. As students progress or decide to add another instrument (piano AND voice), I recommend 45-60 minute lessons.

Question 3

Do I need a piano at home?

Accepted Answer

Yes! In my opinion, acoustic pianos are always best, but a weighted keyboard can suffice for the beginning stages. If you have any questions about purchasing a keyboard or piano, feel free to ask me!

Question 4

How much practice is necessary?

Accepted Answer

This depends on the level and age of the student, and how fast they want to progress. The most important thing is that practice happens every day and that weekly assignments are completed. For younger students and shorter attention spans, practice does not have to happen all in one sitting! The goal is to keep coming to the piano! That said this is how long it will normally take to practice what I assign:
Pre-school students (3-4 years): 10 minutes a day
Young beginner students (5-6 years): 10-20 minutes a day
Elementary students: 20-30 minutes a day
Intermediate students: 30-45 minutes a day
Advanced students: 45-60 minutes a day

Question 5

What kind of books do I need and where do I get them?

Accepted Answer

You never need to get any books, I’ll do all that for you and will add the cost to your next month's tuition.
 
I use many different books and methods to suit different learning styles but some of my most commonly used series include Wunderkeys, My First Piano Adventures, Faber and Faber Lesson series, and Masterwork Classics. I’m constantly researching new materials and expanding my library so I can find the music that inspires each and every student.

Question 6

What is the youngest age of student that you teach?

Accepted Answer

For piano, I teach as young as three and a half. Students must be potty trained. I recommend students have some experience in a pre-school setting, but it is not required.
 
For voice, I teach as young as 6 years old. It is recommended that students have started learning to read.

Question 7

Do you teach adults?

Accepted Answer

No. I have taught adults in the past and have learned that I communicate best with younger students. If you would like suggestions of some piano teachers in the area who teach adults, please ask!

Question 8

Do your students get opportunities to perform?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Getting to share music with others is one of the best parts of learning to play an instrument!
 
I hold four concerts every year, which all students are welcome to perform in. Two performances (the Holiday Pajama Party and the Spring Concert) are all studio concerts. The other two performances (Costume Concert and Valentine's Concert) are for the two different grade groups (Pre-K-6th Grade and 7th-12th Grade).
 
Shy students are welcome to just come and watch, I’ll never push a student to perform if they don’t want to.

Question 9

Do your students perform for auditions, competitions, or exams?"

Accepted Answer

Students are welcome to take part in the area auditions, competitions, and theory exams, but it’s not a requirement.
 
I test my late elementary students in Sight-Reading, Scales, Arpeggios, Chords and Cadences each year. I also encourage students to try the National Federation of Music Club auditions; these are my personal favorite because they showcase American composers and are a great way to set goals and build confidence.

Question 10

What type of music do you teach?

Accepted Answer

I teach any and all genre’s of music that a student wants to learn. Nothing is off the menu!
 
Although I believe classical music is generally necessary for good progress to be made, you are by no means limited to classical. My students learn pop, jazz, blues, punk, and rock – I want every student to have a solid foundation but then also find a passion for the music they love!

Question 11

How can I pay my tuition?

Accepted Answer

Tuition is a flat monthly rate. Bank transfer payments are the most convenient for most students but you can also pay by cash or check if you prefer.

Question 12

What is your studio policy?

Accepted Answer

You can download my studio policy here. (https://www.welchschoolofpiano.com/tuition-fees)

These are some of the most frequently asked questions by prospective students and their parents. If you have any other questions for me, please feel free to reach out!