FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOW LONG OF A LESSON SHOULD I TAKE?

For students studying at Grade 5 and above I would normally recommend a weekly hour lesson. Grade 8 and above students may wish to take 90 minute lessons to avail of additional savings. Due to the large amount of work required when studying for higher Grades and Diplomas, longer lessons each week will ensure you make much more rapid progress.

WHERE DO YOU HOLD YOUR LESSONS?

As of July 2020 all lessons will take place online using ZOOM or  SKYPE.

Preferably, you should have access to an acoustic piano - as this will allow me to go into greater detail with you, although a digital piano will also do the job. If you are a complete beginner, please ensure you have access to a keyboard at the very least. It would be impractical for me to teach you if you don't have an instrument.

HOW DO ZOOM/SKYPE LESSONS WORK?

ZOOM is my preferred platform as it boasts better audio and video performance and also makes connecting with one another more seamless when starting each lesson. You don't need an account for ZOOM. Just download the app and click on the link that I have emailed to you at the time of your lesson. Each meeting (lesson) will be scheduled in advance using the same link every week. It couldn't be easier!

When you download Skype, create an account either by using your email address or phone number. Once you provide me with that detail I can video call you at our arranged time for your lesson.

To ensure that you receive the best quality service please make sure that you have a strong and fast internet connection. If you keep the internet free from use by other people in the house at the time of your lesson you will increase the stability of your connection during the Skype call.

I would recommend using a wired (ethernet) connection to a Mac or PC/Laptop but wireless will also work well providing you are not situated too far from your router. iPads and other tablets also offer good quality. Smartphones are also viable, but due to the small screen size you will likely be sacrificing the quality of your experience.

Rather than simply setting your mobile phone at the end of your keyboard, I would recommend investing in a tripod/stand or using a pre existing music stand if you have one so that you can elevate your camera/device at an appropriate height for me to see your entire keyboard and both of your hands.

I have found that having the camera situated around 3 or 4 feet away from the end of your piano usually works best.

Please make sure you are logged in to Skype a few minutes before your lesson is due to start. I will call you at our arranged time. Sometimes Skype will not notify you of the incoming call unless you are logged in. So be sure to do this. Also please be as punctual as possible. The student after you will be waiting on their lesson when yours is due to end and it is not fair to keep anyone waiting. Because of this I will always have to end our lesson at the scheduled time. 

CHILD PROTECTION

As a piano tutor, and over 17 years as an employee of a Music School I have had regular ACCESS NI checks in place.