Music Classes & Piano Lessons FAQ
Q: Do I need a piano at home to take piano lessons?
A. It is ideal if you do have a piano at home, but you can start lessons by using an electric keyboard to practice on. Most of our students rent or buy small electric keyboards to practice on at home. We recommend a keyboard that has regular sized keys and a touch sensitive response. A touch sensitive keyboard means if you press a key harder it will play louder and if you press a key softer it will play quieter.
Q. How long does it take to learn an instrument?
A. There is no set answer of how long it takes to learn an instrument. With regular practice, a basic level of playing can be accomplished in a few months. Most of our students take lessons on a long term basis because they want to constantly improve and they find the lessons enjoyable.
Q. I don't have any musical background or ability. Can I still help my child practice?
A. Yes. Even if you don't have a musical background, you can ask your child's teacher for advice on how to help your child practice. By simply monitoring that they are doing exercises a certain number of times per day, you will help your child to progress. Many parents occasionally sit in on their child's music lesson to get an idea of the proper way a song should sound or how the student should be positioned.
Q: My child is not a music prodigy. Is Philomusica just for gifted students?
A. NO! Most of our students are of average ability. Our program is designed to maximize each student's potential regardless of talent.
Q: What if my child wants to quit?
A. Often we are able to work through any problems that the student may have. We encourage the students to seek guidance from the School.
Q: I am an adult and wish to take lessons for the first time. Is your school just for children?
A: NO! Philomusica has an Adult Institute designed to help adults start any instrument. The Adult Institute was set up to help each adult enjoy the fun of music education. Emphasis is placed on music for recreation, not performance. Studies show that music slows aging and has many health benefits.
Q: Philomusica may seem to be more expensive than the teacher at the music store or the teacher who teaches out of his home. Is it really?
A: Many of our parents have found out that the quality and comprehensiveness of the program is a great value. Most of our transfer students are one to three years behind the Philomusica students. Music stores, by nature, concentrate more on sales.
