Piano

Private weekly lessons are 45 or 60 minutes in length, depending on the student’s level. Instruction is founded on developing the total musician and cultivating a lifelong love of music. All programs consist of sight reading, ear training, technical development, repertoire, history, improvising, transposing, and theory. (Additional instruction time is required when also preparing for theory exams.) Students are required to have an acoustic piano and metronome/app at home for daily practice. The recommended amount of practice time varies by age and skill level.

Genres and Levels

Beginners of any age spend one to three years learning the basics of music. I offer the choice of several current method books to lay a good foundation and achieve steady progress. As students progress through the final year, they may begin the transition into the classical program.
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.
For students wishing to round out their musical skills in order to play in a band or as a church musician, I offer instruction and coaching that draws on curriculums of the Royal Conservatory of Music Keyboard Harmony and Conservatory Canada Contemporary Idioms, and my own varied experience. Students will work on ear training, improvisation, transposing, transcribing, and expanding their theoretical knowledge. Students learn how to play from fake books, lead sheets, and other score types beyond a standard piano score. Recommended prerequisites: RCM Level 6 Piano and Theory.
Many performance opportunities are available. During the year, students participate in regular studio performance classes – a relaxed environment for students-only to build confidence and skill in performing from memory. Studio recitals provide opportunities to perform for a larger audience and celebrate student success. Further opportunities include exams, festivals, local ORMTA events, and Kanata Music Club recitals.

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 S.

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