We offer a musical enrichment program for all ages and levels. In our Utica, NY area, we have 2 convenient locations: Chadwicks and Clinton. In Lake Wylie, SC, Jeanette Swiderski teaches out of her home and also offers virtual lessons. Music for Little Mozarts, a small group piano class, is offered for ages 4 1/2 to 7. If you are interested in piano lessons, we encourage you to contact us to discuss your options. Whether you are just a bit rusty and would like a refresher or you have never played the piano in your life, our expert instructors can suggest a tailored program to meet your needs.
Why You Should Consider Private Piano Lessons
Enrolling in piano lessons is an important educational decision.
We incorporate fresh ideas for teaching today’s piano students including:
- Comprehensive musicianship approach that includes written theory, ear training, sight-reading and creative activities
- A non-position reading approach based on patterns and landmarks
- Careful attention is paid to ´hands together´ playing skills
- Rhythm taught by patterns rather than single notes
- Includes all new music with melody lines kids will love to sing
- Subject matter and pacing appeals to today´s busy students
Some beginning methods used include the Faber Piano Adventures and Alfred’s Basic Piano Library. However, every child is unique, and we tailor the lessons to each child’s specific learning style.
Performance opportunities: Students may perform in recitals held in November and June. Additional performance opportunities include nursing home visits and playing at different functions throughout the year.
Audition opportunities: Students may choose to perform in their school’s NYSMMA auditions. More advanced students are invited to audition to the Jr. B Sharp Club, a local music club for talented students in the area. Students in grades 10 through 12 also have the opportunity to audition for a B Sharp Scholarship.
It is our mission at The Piano Lab to provide the highest quality music instruction for the private student who desires to begin his music experience or improve existing music skills.
Virtual lessons are offered with Jeanette Swiderski. Piano lessons by Zoom/Facetime
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Do I need to own a piano to begin piano lessons? We recommend beginning piano lessons on a piano, but if this is impossible, we suggest you purchase a 61 full-size, touch sensitive keyboard. These are sold at the larger retail stores. Please check with us if you are interested in purchasing a used piano.
2. How much will I need to spend on music? We recommend setting aside about $75 to $100 per year on music materials, which could include a metrenome, music books, notebook, and additional materials recommended by your instructor. Many of our instructors have found that videotaping a lesson may help the child and parent at home. Smart phones or tablets may be brought to the lesson.
3. How much does my child need to practice? We recommend setting aside at least 15 minutes per day for beginning students, and gradually increasing time with each new level and year taking lessons. By the time a student is in junior high school, a minimum of 30 minutes is required. Students participating in any auditions should increase their daily practice by at least 15 extra minutes per day. For beginning students, it’s best to set aside the same time every day for practice. Parents should be on hand to supervise the practice, even if they cannot read music. They can read the directions to their child, and make sure their theory homework is completed before their lesson.
4. What age is best to start piano lessons? With all the current research and updated method books on the market, a child can begin lessons as young as age 4 1/2. The Piano Lab does recommend that a child that is younger than 4 should take a few semesters of Kindermusik. Kindermusik is an excellent foundation for young children, and teaches them to listen, focus and prepares them for structured lessons.
If you have any other questions, please review our forms or contact us.