My personal objective is to teach the love of learning. As this can be a life long pursuit, it should be fun and enjoyable, after all this is what music is all about! However ones level of achievement is also reflected in ones level of effort! I therefore stress the importance of regular practice habits and self-discipline, along with a structured program if one is going to succeed. A well-balanced music education includes the ability to read music, a well-developed ear, and a good understanding of theory, along with the use of notation skills for writing it. Classical music, and the Royal Conservatory of music, provides an excellent structured system for one to learn the basics and the most advanced theory, technique, and compositional skills. This is where the foundation for jazz and blues are as well. Popular music does not offer this structure. Therefore a combination of classical music, popular, and fun music for enjoyment is taught. Of course this varies according to individual needs have a fairly flexible approach for each student. One can take exams at the RCM and enter competitions, or one can choose not to, in which case there is less stress on the student. It really depends on the parent, and/or student. Each student has different strengths and/or weaknesses in different areas. Some may have a stronger ear, and/ or strong rhythmic skills, or reading ability. I therefore choose the approach which is best suited for each person. The student is most always given preference to the pieces he/she wishes to study.
Music lessons can be enjoyed and experienced by everyone, regardless of age. With so many instruments to choose from, music can satisfy the needs of each individual, young or old, with music at any style or level from the most basic to the most sophisticated. One can continue learning for a lifetime and still be learning new things at 100 years old. Generally, the younger the age the student starts music lessons, the better off they are. On the other hand, a person is never too old to begin studying music. Some adults believe that they are too old to start taking piano lessons at age 45. Music is a wonderful creative outlet for adults, reducing stress; often the start of music lessons when a person thinks they are too old, can be the most rewarding change a person can give themselves. Life usually becomes more exciting and challenging with a new hobby and/or artistic endeavor. Retirement is also the perfect time to try something new. With more time for creative hobbies and interests, learning to sing and/or play an instrument at this time can be very rejuvenating.
One does not have to become a concert pianist, or play professionally, to reap the benefits of music. The benefits of piano lessons are endless, including increased coordination, hearing and sensitivity, motor-development, eye coordination, creativity and self-discipline. With it's healing abilities, it opens up many avenues which we can explore all aspects of our feelings and emotions, connecting us to our hearts, channeling creativity and imagination, which aids to the personal and intellectual development of the whole person. Its healing abilities affect our moods, uplift our spirits and stimulate learning. Music lessons are great for a child's self esteem, and if they are enjoyable, often a student' s achievement level will increase in other subject areas as well. Music gives a child, a healthy creative outlet, it is intellectual and stimulating for the brain and it becomes something fulfilling to do with one's spare time, preventing boredom or teens getting into unhealthy habits such as watching too much TV, using drugs or violence. Often teens getting into trouble are just bored looking for something to do with their time.