FAQ

• young beginners

• students starting piano for the first time

• families who want a reliable weekly lesson time

• parents looking for thoughtful, foundational music instruction

• students who benefit from a calm and encouraging teacher with experience

• families who value steady growth over pressure

• welcoming

• calm

• encouraging

• consistent

• structured but not stiff

• supportive of different learning styles

• focused on steady growth

I highly recommend having access to a piano or keyboard at home so students can practice between lessons and make steady progress.

An acoustic piano or a full-size digital piano with 88 weighted keys is ideal, as it helps students develop proper technique, touch, dynamics, and pedal skills.

For beginners, a smaller keyboard can be a good place to start. As students progress, however, I recommend moving to a full-size weighted-key instrument.

If you’re unsure what would be a good fit for your family, I’m happy to offer recommendations before you purchase.

For young beginners and families who want their child to learn music well from the start, we beginning with the Foundations Track.

This track focuses on helping students understand the basics of music while gaining confidence at the piano. Lessons include reading music, playing with steady rhythm, developing good hand position and technique, listening carefully, learning simple theory, and enjoying songs that keep students engaged.

Beginner learners will apply important basics using the Piano Adventures by Faber & Faber.

The goal is steady process and progress utilizing repetition, encouragement and fun!

Yes. Students are responsible for the cost of the books and music needed for their level of instruction.

In most cases, I will choose and order the appropriate materials for your student so there is no delay in getting started, and you will be notified of the cost.

From time to time, I may also recommend additional sheet music or resources based on a student’s interests and goals.

Yes; a student doesn't learn music or piano without theory. Theory is an important part of learning music and is included in my teaching approach. 

While theory may not always sound like the “fun” part of piano lessons, it won’t necessarily feel like a separate theory lesson. Instead, it will be woven into what we’re already learning so students understand how music works, why certain notes and chords fit together, and how to become more confident, independent musicians.

Yes. Regular practice at home is an important part of learning piano and helps students make steady progress.

Practice doesn’t need to be long or overwhelming. Short, consistent practice is often more effective than one long session each week. The goal is to review what we’ve learned, build confidence, and create good habits over time.

Piano Lessons will be held at Melanie's home piano studio in Three Hills, Alberta. Location details will be provided upon registration.