How long does each lesson need to be?

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Most young beginners start with a half hour lesson. This usually provides enough time for teachers to cover what is needed and set practice goals for the following week. Younger students generally have a shorter attention span so half an hour is ample time initially for young students to be expected to concentrate and stay alert. Teachers include relevant music games and activities in order to maintain interest and concentration during this time.  Most exam students are expected to have 1 hour lessons in order to allow time to cover all aspects of the syllabus.

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How much does the student need to practice?

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This varies depending on the age and level of the student. Generally speaking, students may be required to practice anywhere between 10 minutes a day and 3 hours a day. Like any motor skill, the more you practice, the better you become. However, our teachers emphasise the importance of quality practice and not just quantity ( number of minutes per day). Students are guided through effective practice strategies and specific goal setting for each practice session so that practice is specifically aimed at improving some aspect of the students performance from week to week. Our general practice guideline:

• Young beginners: at least 10 minutes a day

• Older beginners: at least 10-20 minutes a day

• Exam students: Prelim at least 25mins a day

• Exam students: grades 1-3: at least 40mins a day

• Exam students grade 4 and above : at least 60 minutes a day

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Please note that teachers will be emphasising that it is more important that students focus on the quality of practice performed rather than the duration of the practice.

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Is it compulsory for every student to prepare for exams?

No. For some students, preparing for exams is a good motivational tool and helps students to set objective goals throughout the year. For other students, particularly those learning for leisure and enjoyment, exams are not necessary for achieving their goals and objectives.

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What can I expect in my first lesson?

 This is an opportunity to tell us about yourself (your child) and discuss your (your child's) goals and  objectives. For students who have learned previously, it is also an opportunity for the Director to hear the student play and assess what level the student is playing at. Students receive a short lesson and learn something new as well as familiarise themselves with YM Piano Studio Lesson Structure.  Younger students get a chance to accompany the piano with a percussion instrument. You can ask questions at any time and the whole session provides a wonderful opportunity for parents and students  to get a feel of what lessons are like at YM Piano Studio.

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