Piano Teacher
For about 40 years students have come to The Rouse House for piano lessons. Many students have become doctors, lawyers, teachers, engineers, and other professionals who value music as an avocation. A few have become professional musicians.
Currently, students range in age from five to 83 years of age. Each student’s individual learning style and pace is respectfully nurtured and developed according to his unique ability. Learning to play the piano is a long-term family commitment of time, and resources that requires practice and encouragement.
Each young student needs a parent to serve as the regular, daily practice coach, or cheerleader, and to observe all private lessons. Learning is greatly enhanced by having a team of three: the student, the cheerleader, and the teacher. Of course a well-kept acoustic piano in the home is a must, and progress is in direct proportion to practice.
Performance opportunities are scheduled at least four times during the year. Most sessions are for small groups of students and their families in the teacher’s studio. The May recitals for younger students are more formal and in a larger, public space where friends and extended family may be invited.
Adult students often find it difficult to perform for an audience, so we meet together for sharing times in the Rouse House Studio. Just adults, and a few spouses meet, eat, and play a wide variety of musical styles for each other. The highlight of these times is hearing the Eight Hand Group play. This quartet is comprised of women who play well and meet weekly to practice music which requires two pianos. Other students often pair up to play duets. Having a desire to want to learn to play or to return to playing piano is the most important prerequisite. There is no best age to begin lessons and it is never too late to begin developing this very satisfying skill. Absolute beginners are welcome, as are those whose "mother let them quit". Again, progress depends on practice.
For more information about piano lessons, please Contact Mary.
