Teaching Method
Supportive and encouraging, I guide students step-by-step toward mastery of the keyboard and musical expression. My method as a piano teacher is to streamline the learning process by removing obstacles and guiding students toward their goals at a natural and unforced pace.
Because every student is unique, each piano lesson is tailored to the student’s individual strengths, challenges, and interests. Musical preferences are incorporated into lessons because students are more likely to practice the music that truly inspires them.
I provide a solid foundation in keyboard technique and musicianship so that students are empowered to explore any kind of music. Igniting the imagination of students, and providing them with the tools to realize their highest potential is the basis of my teaching.
Beginning students learn to make music from the first lesson. As students become more comfortable with articulating their fingers on the keyboard, they are introduced to note reading and musical notation. Lessons focus on:
• Hand position and fingering
• Music notation
• Rhythm
• Sight reading
• Playing by ear
• Repertoire
• Phrasing and interpretation.
• Harmony and musical forms
As skill in reading music and technical ability develops, students are then able to explore more challenging pieces of the repertoire with a confident and relaxed technique. Students are provided with short-term goals that lead to long-term improvement.
Piano classes are held at the Baker Piano Studio, located
on
Manhattan’s Upper West Side near Lincoln Center in New York City.
For lessons at your home, please visit the Tuition
page.
STUDIO POLICY
1) Lesson payment is paid a month in advance, and is nonrefundable. If
a payment is more than 10 days late, there is a late charge of $25.
2) At least 24 hours notice must be given if the student cancels or the lesson will be forfeited. If sufficient notice is given a make-up lesson will be scheduled. There is no transfer of any portion of tuition from one month to another. If the teacher cancels a lesson, credit will be given or a make-up lesson will be scheduled. Extra time will not be allotted to late arrivals.
3) Participation in student recitals is strongly encouraged but not required. There is a $50 off-premises performance fee for each student to offset expenses (space rental, piano tuning, refreshments, etc.)
4) Students must have a piano at home, or daily access to one for practicing. Digital 88-note keyboards that are touch-sensitive and have weighted action are recommended substitutes
5) Music books and materials will be provided by the teacher who will be remunerated at-cost.
6) Younger children must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.
Jonathan Baker • Piano Teacher • Piano Lessons • New York City (NYC, Upper West Side) • 917-526-2253 • www.bakerpianolessons.com