Piano Tuition in Melbourne and Ballarat

Alison teaches students from the age of three years. At the commencement of lessons she creates fun and enjoyment combined with humour but gradually intensifies the work ethic. The pre schoolers soon realize that sincere effort is required to achieve satisfactory progress. The focus need not be just centered on perfection, accuracy and fluency. Co-ordination, reading and rhythmic activities are introduced from the outset. Fine tuning of the reflexes begins as early as possible. 

At this stage there is minimal reliance on learning from recordings. These can be utilized in the polishing off stage. There is minimal use of  rote learning.

Tonal colouring and phrase shaping are incorporated from the start  along with other elements of interpretation. A technical foundation is established. 

 

If you are aiming for  group involvement and games, there are some excellent organizations that cater for this. It is of great benefit to develop aural skills before commencing formal studies on any instrument. Alison teaches the technique and touch as well as tonal control from the age of 3- these are formal piano lessons rather than kindergarten games. 

The parental involvement is essential at this stage and must be continuous, although a degree of independence in practise time can be introduced.

The Intermediate level is a crucial stage of learning and and sometimes a change of direction is necessary. Alison teaches the classical styles but also caters for jazz and contemporary styles.

Often the Piano for Leisure course of the AMEB or the new Jazz Syllabus of ANZCA can appeal to students of  Intermediate grades or Secondary school. Taking a break from lessons is not all that effective.

Students begin to realize that while music can be fun, some degree of diligence and consistent effort are necessary if they are to make satisfactory progress and to become good piano players as well as musicians. The focus on detail is increased for the more serious student. The technical elements and various aspects of touch and articulation are constantly monitored. In many students an individual performing style is clearly emerging,  therefore communicating ideas to the listener and employing gestures are also explored to enhance their performing style.

The Advanced levels include Diploma levels and studying concert repertoire.The advanced students should be more self-motivated and capable of organizing their practice routine. Fine tuning of more efficient practise is emphasized.

For a student at this level, further development of advanced technical skills must be pursued. Much greater attention to the subtleties of interpretation such as nuances and rubato are paramount. Pedal skills are enhanced. 

 

Consequently, the lessons are structured differently to allow the student some autonomy and give them some options when selecting repertoire. Study of concertos is now included if they haven't during the Intermediate  level. A wider range of composers and styles are explored.