Piano
Private weekly lessons are 45 minutes, 60 minutes, or longer if you are combining piano with a theory course. Lessons include ear training, sight reading, improvising, technical development, and applied theory. While taking an exam is optional and student-driven, for those who choose to complete an RCM exam, preparation is thorough and includes performance training and mock exams so students perform with confidence.
Students are required to have an instrument at home for daily practice. An acoustic piano is best. A full-size digital keyboard with 88-weighted keys and damper and soft pedal is acceptable.
How well any musician plays is a direct result of the quality and quantity of their individual practice. Daily practice is expected. The recommended amount of practice time varies by age and skill level.
I only began learning piano in my 40s, and found Kathleen’s teaching well-tailored to an adult learner – patience and encouragement, innovative ways of solving “learning roadblocks,” passionate explanations of music history, an impressive ability to adapt to online lessons in a way that unexpectedly made them even more enriching, a willingness to tackle my bucket list of songs to play – that was balanced with the necessary structure in my lessons to keep me on track.
Marc, piano student
Genres and Levels
Elementary
Students of any age who have at least one year of experience continue to learn the basics of music. Beginners typically spend one to three years learning the fundamentals of music. Using a selection of modern method books, we build a strong foundation step by step. As confidence and skills grow, students smoothly transition into the classical program.
Classical
I offer instruction in all levels from Level 1 to ARCT of the widely-recognized Royal Conservatory of Music. Students develop their technical facility and music reading ability, as well as gain an understanding of historical styles and interpretation. In addition, students develop ear and musicianship skills. Students in this program may choose to prepare for an exam.
Musicianship
Want to take your musical skills beyond solo playing? Whether you dream of playing in a band, accompanying a choir, or exploring different styles, my coaching helps you develop well-rounded musicianship. Drawing from the Royal Conservatory of Music’s Keyboard Harmony and Conservatory Canada’s Contemporary Idioms, along with my own experience, I guide students in ear training, improvisation, transposing, and more. You’ll learn to play from fake books, lead sheets, and other score types beyond traditional piano music. Recommended for students at RCM Level 6 Piano and Theory or higher.
I was skeptical when I heard that piano lessons had to move to an online format due to the covid-19 pandemic but it turned out much better than I expected. Not only is Kathleen a gifted musician and teacher but she is also very technically savvy. Online lessons included dual camera angles and an online music whiteboard to explain theory. Using video conferencing, Kathleen is able to see and correct my form and posture using language and modelling that makes it very clear what I need to change. Kathleen is just as effective online as she is in person.
Cari, piano student
Get Set for Online Lessons
Before your online piano lessons begin, make sure you’re set up with everything you need.
You’ll need access to a piano, a laptop with a reliable internet connection, a webcam, and the Zoom app installed and ready to use. To ensure a smooth start, take a moment to review the online lesson checklist and setup tips.
Let’s make music together!
