Piano Lessons in Martensville, SK

Practical piano lessons take a one-on-one approach. The lesson plans are individually tailored for each student based on their learning style.  Lessons begin at 30 minutes per week, and increase as the student advances.

Each lesson includes technique, theory, ear training, and staff reading.  This provides the student with a well rounded understanding of music theory as well as practical techniques for the piano.

Theory Rudiments

This is for the student looking to expand their understanding of basic music theory. Theory Rudiments includes levels 1-8.  This is included in the practical lesson, but can also be selected individually.  Students can register for a theory only lesson.

Advanced Theory Subjects

Advanced theory subjects include harmony, analysis, history and counterpoint. These are included in practical lessons for students in levels 9+. However, students can also register for these lessons separately.

Weddings, Funeral / Memorial Services, Banquets, Accompaniment.

Please inquire directly with Alissa regarding dates and pricing for your event.

There are 34 weeks in the teaching schedule from September through May.  A deposit cheque is required at the time of registration, dated September 1st, to hold the student’s spot for that year.  The remaining cheques are due by the first lesson.

Tuition covers 32 lessons, allowing two flex weeks for unexpected cancellations.  If Alissa needs to cancel a lesson, she will always try to reschedule, but when this is not possible, a “flex week” will be used.  Lesson cancellations beyond those two flex weeks will be made up later in the year or refunded.

If the student cancels a lesson, there will be no reimbursement for that lesson.  Again, Alissa will do her best to reschedule, but this is not guaranteed.  Should the student choose to discontinue lessons prior to the end of the teaching year, tuition will still be payable in full.  Lesson times have been reserved for the student as a full year commitment.

Payment may be provided through post dated cheques or scheduled e-transfers, dated for the 1st of each month, September through May. Payment received after the 14th of the month may be subject to a $5.00 late fee.

Extra lessons for June or August exams may be covered by an additional fee, depending on the number of lessons required.

Additional theory lessons are available as needed at a rate of $40 per hour. Groups of two or more students will receive a rate of $25 per hour per student. This covers any additional lessons required outside of the regularly scheduled time.

Individual lessons for those not already registered are available for $45 per hour.
We request that parents do not sit in during their child’s lesson, unless otherwise discussed.  Parents of younger students may be invited in for the last 5 minutes of class so their child can demonstrate what they learned.  This can also be an opportunity for parents to discuss how they can support their child at home.

A piano is required for home practice.  Beginner students may use a keyboard, provided that it has a full set of 88 weighted keys and a pedal.

Students are asked to bring a notebook to the lesson.  Notes regarding assignments, studio updates, and practice tips will be recorded in this notebook.

Unless otherwise arranged, lesson books will be purchased by the studio, and an invoice will be sent for reimbursement.

A metronome is an extremely beneficial tool for learning the language of music. There are many free metronome apps available for smart phone and tablet if you do not wish to purchase a metronome. Please ensure that the student has access to the metronome for all practice sessions. Beginner students will be guided in how they can begin to use this music tool.

Please bring the following to each lesson:

• Music books (example: Lesson book, technique book, theory book)
• Notebook (preferably 8.5 x 11 inch notebook)
• Pencil and eraser
• Flashcards

Those choosing to enrol in music lessons are embarking on learning a language.  It will take time and practice to gradually build up the skills to be fluent in reading, writing, and playing music.  Further, regular practice using the language is crucial in building confidence in this journey. 

Students should aim to practice five days a week.  Their teacher will help by providing guidelines in how to practice thoughtfully and effectively for each level.  Every week, lesson notes will be recorded in the student’s notebook.  It is helpful to review these in daily practice sessions to help the student intentionally work on what was practiced in the lesson.  Our hope is that the time a student sets aside to practice would be as fruitful as possible - and therefore rewarding for them as well!

Practice charts will also be included in students’ notebooks each week, and we ask that parents/guardians support their child in completing these charts weekly.  We find this helpful not only as an accountability tool, but also as a guide for the teacher for how the student is progressing in a variety of ways.  For example, if a student is regularly practicing but doesn’t seem to be progressing, this is a good opportunity for the teacher to evaluate the work load, support the student in more effective practice methods, or perhaps find and work on a key component that will help the student continue to grow.

Practice time guidelines:  Young and new beginners should plan to practice 15-20 minutes per day, 5 days a week.  This should gradually increase to 30 minutes, 5 times a week as the practice material increases.  Students that reach the RCM Level 3 and higher should use their grade as a guide. For example, a level 5 RCM student should expect to practice 5 hours a week, and a level 7 RCM student should expect to practice 7 hours.  This will help the student set reasonable expectations for rewarding success.  Further, this is a general guideline that will vary from student to student, and assumes consistency.  When consistency in practice has not been maintain, students seeking after a specific goal may need to set aside extra time in the week for practice.