There are tons and tons of ways to learn the piano these days. From self-teaching books to Youtube videos, computer programs to in the flesh professionals. With so many options there’s not enough time to give all of them a try!
So, how do you know you are getting the most from your piano education?
We’ve compiled a list of things to consider to help find those answers!
Are you being taught towards your personal goals?
What are your personal goals with the piano? Do you want to play Mozart or prepare for a rock band audition? Are you trying to learn jazzy chords for hip hop production or improve your synthesizer skills? Do you want to know how to figure out a tune by ear, or accompany yourself while you sing?
The piano is a versatile instrument and has many uses, all of which require a different method and educational trajectory; if you want to improve your ability to accompany yourself with chords while singing, learning Mozart won’t help you get there, and vice versa!
Online programs, as well as schools with rigid curriculums don’t allow for such malleability.
Our academy is home to Toronto’s most versatile and accommodating teachers. We have experts in every genre and style who can help you on your way to whatever goal you are aiming at!
Are Performance opportunities provided?
Performances are one of the best ways to learn music. Getting on stage is a totally different experience than being in the practice room, and allows for confidence building and growth like nothing else.
Performances also provide a goal to work towards, and there is nothing like the pride and self-satisfaction of getting up in front of friends and family (and strangers!) to show off that new song!
Our school provides professional recitals twice a year. Even with the advent of Covid 19 we found a way to continue safely with online recitals!
Beyond this, we also offer multiple free group classes every week for an opportunity to get up in front of your musical peers and practice dissolving that stage fright!
Are different perspectives encouraged?
The piano is an instrument used in every genre imaginable, from classical to rock to dance! Each of these styles is like a different language. Even if a teacher or musician is well studied, they are often only a master of a handful of genres. That’s why our school has a varied staff, with teachers who excel in every style there is!
At Toronto Arts Academy we make it easy to take different (free!) group classes every week to experience different styles and perspectives!
Are your teachers supportive, qualified and experienced?
We can’t even begin to count how many times students have told us the horrors of their old piano teachers! Many hyper-traditional schools teach in a way that truly ruins music for many people, and it’s a sad thing to see.
All of our teachers have degrees in music, as well as professional experience performing, writing and recording. Furthermore, they are some of the most supportive people in the world! We want all of our students to excel and love music for a lifetime!
Are high quality instruments used in the lessons?
Playing on an entry level portable keyboard is a totally different experience than playing on a nine foot grand. The amount of control and expression a quality instrument allows makes for a large difference in enjoyment and quality.
While we of course couldn’t fit a whole bunch of grands in our studio, we house the best digital pianos the market has to offer! Each lesson room is fitted with a top of the line instrument to provide our students with the best musical education experience possible.
Are there rewards or a graded system?
Rewards and tests are a great way to maintain motivation, especially for kids. Our school uses the Musical Ladder System, which allows for customized tests every 3 months. If passed, a wristband is awarded. Even better, trophies are also awarded at the intervals of 6 months and a year!
On top of this, if you are looking for a more structured curriculum you’ve also come to the right place. Many of our teachers are certified by the Royal Conservatory of Music and can help prepare students for their adjudicated exams.
Is There A Space For Community?
Community is one of the most important yet commonly overlooked aspects of musical education. Almost all of the music we love is played together by multiple musicians! However, most private lesson schools forget this crucial matter. As a result the communal bonding and ensemble skills of students remain underdeveloped.
At Toronto Arts Academy we make community a priority! Thanks to our free group classes which happen multiple times a week, students are able to interact with one another on a regular basis. Many regulars of our group classes even become friends outside of the school!
Final Notes
If you want to ensure you’re getting the most out of your piano lessons, give us a call today at 647 748 2787! We would be honoured to help you on your musical journey!
