1. Published Piano Music

The first part of lessons is used for learning tunes from published music with treble and bass clef. This expands a lot of possibilities. Various styles are available. They are so fun and you can learn a lot! But if the student is not interested in, he/she will have the first 3~5 minutes of each lesson to practice sight reading an easy music with treble and bass clef.

2. Lead Sheet (music with melody and chords only)

All students are required to learn some songs in this style, because this develops their ears significantly. I will take any requests. Classical, pop, jazz, movie themes, anything. I will go online, check the recording, and arrange it to fit the student's level. So, this should be fun for everybody! If students are open to learn anything, I will introduce some songs by playing.

First several months, students get lead sheets with roman numeral analysis chords. (I, ii , iii, IV,,,) After learning basic structure of harmony, they will practice transposing the same tune into different keys. This is the important key to develop good ears. At this stage, students will also learn how to transpose melodies.

3.Scale, cadence, arpeggio, inversion, transposing

I always thought learning scales could be boring. The fact is... most people enjoy it. They like something repetitive with something new. I make a chart to track their progress.

4.Repertoire

Repetition is the key for a good player. I always come back to the songs my students learned in the past. I make a repertoire list for each student. Sometimes I call one of the songs in lessons.

Other Things I want to Talk About

Recitals

The more you perform in front of people, the quicker you become better. I encourage all students to perform at the annual recitals. I sometimes recommend some students to perform other opportunities.

Practice

Many teachers say you should practice 30 minutes 5 times per week. If you can do it, it will be great. You will be very very good piano player. I do not force this, but I at least want my students to practice right after lessons and the next day. The worst practice pattern: practice only before lessons. Unfortunately, this is the most common and typical pattern.  Spend the same time right after lessons so you remember what you learned.