FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

How old does my child have to be to take lessons?

• I don't put an age limit on my students, however, students have to have a good attention span, be able to focus on tasks, and complete work at home. Normally, I would suggest students be able to read well, however, if memory is good and work is completed at home, this can be overlooked. Young children need an adults help to complete work at home. Please make sure you have the time to put into your activities if you wish to be in lessons.

Do you teach piano/guitar/ukulele lessons?

• I am predominantly self taught in piano, though I have taken lessons on and off from Undergraduate students at MUN. I haven't ever taken a guitar or ukulele lesson. I prefer students have more background from an experienced teacher in their preferred instrument to have a better understanding of technique. What I do is help students accompany themselves by teaching theory, inversions, and simultaneous playing/singing.

Is there much of a difference between a 30 minute and 45 minute lesson?

• Depending on the student, yes. For more serious students, technique lessons or warm ups can last up to 30 minutes if working on a vocal issue that needs attention. These exercises can take time and different work, especially where each student is different. This often leaves no time for repetoire/working on songs, which can be frustrating for a student. In these cases, I would suggest a 45 minute lesson.

Does my child have to participate in Kiwanis, Recitals or the Studio CD?

• No performances are mandatory. Each student is different and I am sensitve to how each student wants to use their lesson time. However, it's worth mentioning that private lessons end mid-April, and rehearsals start for the Cabaret. If a student is not interested in performing, they can continue with their private lesson.

Why is my child singing so quietly? Can you work on making their voice stronger and louder?

• Absolutely, however, depending on the age of your child, their voice may be developping as it should. Projection and volume take time, especially in breathier or younger voices. I don't encourage my students to scream or push chest voice. It's essential to develop the top of a voice, which can be quiet at first, so that later, the student works to blend the two registers. This will result in one sound all the way through.

Are there any other extra costs that I should know about?

• Lessons cost $25 per half hour. Group classes cost $11.50 per class. There is a $50 non-refundable registration fee.
• Kiwanis Music Festival is an added cost, both to participate in classes, and to hire an accompanist to play for you/r child. If I have the ability to play the piece your child has selected, you can hire me for $20 to play in the Festival. Otherwise, you have to hire an accompanist for rehearsal and performance time. This can cost anywhere from $40-50 and can turn out to be quite the added expense depending on how many classes you enter and how often you rehearse with your accompanist.
• Tickets to the May Cabaret will be $25 at the LSPU Hall and you will be notified when tickets go on sale. Included in the $50 registration fee is copying fees and costume fees, however, there is a possibility that an added $15-20 may be needed for costuming for the show. Those who have costume changes are encouraged to wear black shoes (jazz shoes are fine), black bodysuit and black tights OR black leggings and a black tank top.