My piano lessons for children
A typical lesson always starts by talking about how the week’s practice has gone. This way my content and approach is relevant! I teach the ‘ingredients’ of any new music with a range of varied activities, before opening the book! This is a powerful and fun way of learning.
I plan lessons designed to develop musicianship skills in these key areas: sight-reading/theory, listening, creativity, technique, performing and playing with others. To do this I use:
- game playing – for example card games, spot the teacher mistake, challenges, computer games, timers, dice games.
- imaginative choice of music that will capture their attention. Often based around their main tutor or exam book, but with supplementary material and seasonal specials.
- Short technical exercises/warm-ups or scales as appropriate.
- gently introducing playful practice techniques so they can enjoy learning well at home.
- improvisation and melody-writing to develop note reading, piano techniques and nurture creativity.
- Movement to music activities – taking ideas from Dalcroze principals.
- Singing and using a variety of percussion instruments for rhythm work.
- Duet playing with me, CD backing track or sibling.
- For my youngest students imaginative props such as soft toys, play-doh and rings.
Every lesson aims to include something new. We finish by awarding any stars due, summarising ideas and setting targets for the coming week.