PIANO lessons
We offer piano lessons at different levels to meet aspiring pianists where they are. Our program is incredibly unique as we also offer multiple performances within a semester to help students reflect on their progress, grow their confidence, connect with peers, and even give back to the community with our assisted living home recitals.
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Students work on 2-3 pieces at a time and are expected to prepare for the upcoming monthly performances offered at LJMA.
CURRICULUM:
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Scales
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Regular​
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Arpeggios
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Broken Chords
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Country Motion
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Thirds
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Sevenths
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Warm-ups
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Chord Progressions
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Key Signatures and Chords
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Major​
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Minor
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Sevenths
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Improvisation and soloing
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Accompanying
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Others​
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Self while singing
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Sight-Reading
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Using a mix of Sight Reading Factory (LJMA curated syllabus) and ABRSM​
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Ear Training
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Recognizing chords, harmonies, ​keys, intervals, rhythms, and styles of playing
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DIRECTIONS OF STUDY
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CLASSICAL
Students can choose to study a traditional route of classical playing or instead learn to accompany themselves when learning voice. Students opting for classical study are encouraged to study for the ABRSM classical exams. These are internationally recognized examinations and teach sight reading, performance, ear training, scales, and are an excellent curriculum to ensure a well-rounded piano education. Students who study ABRSM and complete grade 5 are eligible to apply for our Teacher-In-Training Program.
ABRSM EXAMS
We train and submit students for the internationally recognized ABRSM classical grading system. Multiple months are spent preparing for exams, which become increasingly more advanced as students progress. Students are required to learn a set of scales, three classical pieces ranging from different periods (Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Contemporary), must sight-read music, and are tested on their ear training. Exams are graded with three pass rankings: Pass, Merit, and Distinction, with Distinction being the highest mark awarded. There are 8 Grades to study for, with Grade 8 being considered concert pianist level. Students who pass Grade 5 are required to then complete and pass the Grade 5 Music Theory exam before they are permitted to continue with Grades 6, 7, and 8. This ensures students learn music with a full understanding of the language.
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ACCOMPANYING
Alternatively, many students wish to learn to accompany themselves in addition to the vocal lessons they study with us. This is a huge skill and focuses more on chord progressions, harmony, and piano techniques. Being able to accompany yourself means you no longer require a pianist to perform, but also aids in songwriting and overall musicianship.
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FOR ADVANCED STUDENTS​
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ABRSM Exams
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