Piano Academy

2012-2013 Classes/Policies

The Study Programs

Elementary Division: Beginning Students

The study plan for this division consists of one 60-minute group lesson, plus a half-hour private lesson each week. The group lesson provides the basics in music study including: performance, repertoire, sight-reading, ear training, improvisation, theory, transposition and harmonization. The stimulation and challenge of group study encourages maximum mental and musical growth, and the pleasure of playing for friends is a regular occurrence. The private lesson provides individual attention and encouragement in repertoire, technique and study habits.

The Elementary Division is designed to be an on-going program with groups staying together for a maximum of 2 years of study. Students then move into the Upper Division.

Upper Division

Students with piano background and those who have completed 2 years of the Elementary Division will be placed in the Upper Division. This plan provides a weekly 45-minute private lesson in addition to a monthly Performance Class

Tuition, Fees and Books

Tuition is based on two 16-week semesters. Full payment is due at the beginning of each semester before the first class.

Piano Academy Tuition
Elementary Division	$515 per semester
Upper Division	$640 per semester

Books and materials will be assigned at the teacher’s discretion and constitute a separate fee from tuition. It is important that you purchase required books promptly.

Testing and Evaluations

Piano Academy students participate in the testing programs of the following organizations:

Michigan Federation of Music Clubs
Michigan Music Teachers Association
Carnegie Hall Royal Conservatory Achievement Program

Teachers will provide information about testing dates and fees.

Missed Lessons, Make-up Lessons, Refunds

The piano staff makes every effort to maintain the orderly schedule found in the calendar. If, however, the college is closed, then the Piano Academy is also closed.

If a student cancels a private lesson, make-up times will depend on the teacher’s schedule and cannot be guaranteed. No more than one make-up for each term can be granted. There are no refunds. A private lesson cancelled by the teacher will be rescheduled in a timeley manner.

Visiting, Questions, Concerns

Our piano lab is located in room F420. Because this room has very limited seating, observation of group lessons will be by arrangement. The class teacher can give you information about observing lessons.

Parents are welcome at the private lesson if acceptable to the teacher, but should refrain from bringing other family members.

We are always deeply concerned with the satisfaction, happiness and sense of achievement a student derives from piano study. If you have questions or concerns about your child’s progress or performance, please speak with the instructor.

Summer Study

All piano students are expected to schedule summer lessons in order to maintain skills and to promote successful performance.
Students who are in a group class should arrange lessons with the group class teacher.

Fees for summer lessons are paid directly to the teacher, not to Schoolcraft.

Note to the Parents RE: Support of Practice and Recitals

Parents are a vital part of the overall success of piano study. The discipline of practice needs to be encouraged. Like any habit, this takes time and positive reinforcement. This is where parental support and sensitivity are essential. If a real “practice problem” develops, please be sure to talk with the instructor.

Parents can also facilitate the learning process by bringing their child to class and private lesson on time with all necessary materials and books. Providing a well-tuned piano in comfortable surroundings for home practice is also helpful.

A Masterclass experience has proven to be invaluable before public performance. Since performance is such an important part of our study program, it’s essential that students make every effort to participate in the masterclasses when they are offered.

Schoolcraft Music Department sponsors two different recital series throughout the year. The Wednesday Noon recitals are free and the Friday Evening events are available at reduced ticket prices to Piano Academy students and their families. Attendance is encouraged.

You can find the recital schedule at www.schoolcraft.edu/music

Piano Teacher Certificate Program

Contact Information:

Piano teacher hotline: (734) 462-4400, ext. 5218
Music Office: (734) 462-4403
Email: pminnick@schoolcraft.edu
Website: www.schoolcraft.edu/music