Piano lessons are offered to all ages starting 5+ whether it be for AMEB examinations or just wanting to learn to play your favourite melodies! All levels are catered for (beginners are our specialty!) and the first lesson is free! It is never too late to learn and with dedicated practise and perseverance, you will be surprised at just how quickly you will be playing those pieces you have always dreamed of playing!
The teaching philosophy at Pixie Piano is broad as we focus on what the student wants to achieve and learn in their lessons. This ensures the student is interested in the music they are learning, and more inclined to practise daily at home. For some students, the goal may be achieving a certain level within an exam structure, while others may be more interested in learning to play a variety of repertoire for pleasure (so they can play their favourite movie soundtrack for example).
No matter which direction students wish to take, we aim to provide exceptional teaching with an emphasis on learning the right playing technique. Many little pianists (and older ones too!) start piano training with an incorrect piano playing technique. Once this is ingrained it is very hard to break old habits and this can seriously impact on your piano playing. It can even delay you in the future by causing you to not be able to play more technically challenging repertoire. We focus on the right technique from the very first lesson so students can rest assured they will be saved from having to undo those bad piano playing habits in the future.
Lessons incorporate piano tuition as well as basic theory, aural training and developing improvisation and compositional skills.
These elements all combine to create a well rounded musician! We try to provide students with a solid music education so that they obtain and develop the skills needed to continue learning and playing music on their own.
Lessons are conducted in a comfortable, bright large studio overlooking a natural bush reserve. All students learn on an Alex Steinbach baby grand piano!
Performance Opportunities
Pixie Piano holds 2 afternoon recitals per year (one mid-year and one at end of year). Students are not obligated to perform in these but it is very much encouraged and parents and family are all welcome to attend!
During this trial introductory lesson students are encouraged to bring their own music from home (if they have learnt before) or else can begin learning the basics using Pixie Piano studio material.
For Beginner Students (CHILDREN) Pixie Piano recommends;
John Thompson’s Easiest Piano Course Part 1 (There are 6 in the course)
John Thompson’s Easiest Piano
Course Part 1
NB.
*If possible, please already have your new piano book when you come to your first lesson
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For beginner students (ADULTS), Pixie Piano recommends either of the following two books;
Alfred’s Basic Adult Piano Course Level 1 or
John Thompsons Adult Piano Course - Book 1 (There are 3 books
(There are 3 levels in course)
Alfred’s Basic Adult Piano
Course Level 1
John Thompsons Adult Piano
Course Book 1
NB.
*Both are very good books. Please note an additional theory book may also need to be purchased.
*If possible, please already have your new piano book when you come to your first lesson
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Required Books for AMEB examination students;
AMEB Series: Piano Books (available from Preliminary- Grade 8)
AMEB Series: Piano for Leisure Books (available from Preliminary- Grade 8) *Please note: AMEB Piano Technical Workbook is also required for all students, AMEB or learning for pleasure.
Other recommended books for your piano library at home:
AMEB Piano Technical Workbook
Sight Reading Step by Step – Dulcie Holland
Book 1: Preliminary to Grade 3
Book 2 : Grade 4 – Diploma level
Mini Book – A Dozen A Day (Technical Exercises for the Piano) – Edna- Mae Burton (There are 5 levels)
Bastien Piano Library: Technic Lessons
Primer Level (beginners)
Levels 1-4
Bastien Piano Library: First Hanon Studies (There are 3 levels)
The Art of Finger Dexterity- Czerny (for Intermediate- Advanced levels)
Students are more than welcome to bring along any other music they may have or that they are interested in learning.
Purchasing a Piano/ Keyboard:
There are many factors to consider when deciding to purchase a piano. Many parents like to purchase a second hand piano or a keyboard first, to see how their child takes to learning. While keyboards are perfectly adequate (especially in the beginning) prices and quality vary a great deal so it is best to buy from a reputable store who can give you professional and sound advice.
Please do not hesitate to contact the director of Pixie Piano if you wish to discuss this further.
