Purple Apple Arts Piano Studio Guidelines 2011-2012
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Mrs. Sue Swanson, MDiv
1258 Saddlebrook Lane
Woodbury, MN 55125
(651) 738-7441
email: swansonMN@comcast.net
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Playing music is like learning to speak a new language. In order to become fluent we need to study technique, theory and performance skills including:
Playing written music on the keyboard, improvising and sight reading
Producing a beautiful tone
Writing musical notation
Following rhythmic patterns
Understanding musical terms
Developing listening skills in different musical styles and historical periods
Composing music and arranging accompaniments
Learning to play the piano develops skills of:
Musical Expression
Logical Thinking
Concentration
Hand/eye Coordination
Poise
Patience and Perseverance
I believe in creating a relationship of trust and positive reinforcement. I take each student at their current level and ability and encourage them to do their personal best. Learning to play an instrument as a child is the beginning of a life-long relationship with music. Even a one or two year introduction to music will lay a foundation for further musical study at later stages in life.
Remember – It’s called “playing” the piano because it’s supposed to be fun! It’s no fun if students don’t practice. Repitition is a necessary part of learning.
Practice makes progress. At the beginning level we require 15 minutes a day. Later levels increase the amount of time. It is important to make music every day even if it’s just for a few minutes. Only through practice do you make enough progress to make it fun.
This is essential ***Please be sure to practice right after your lesson – the same day- so that you can remember what we talked about.
Lessons are scheduled for ½ hour. The year begins on Tuesday (September 6) after Labor day through May 24 cost is $720 per year payable in monthly installments of $80, which are due at the first lesson of each month. If you need monthly receipts, please let me know. I do not teach the week between Christmas and New Year (week of December 26-30) and I take two weeks of paid vacation.
Each family will pay a deposit of $50 in September for music books and method materials. Most of you have already paid a deposit. In September I will bill you for all music purchases from 9/2010-8/2011. In June, July and August lessons are scheduled on a flexible basis. Lessons will be $19 each. I encourage all my students to stay involved in piano over the summer and to schedule as many lessons as possible!
Call me as soon as possible if you need to cancel or change a lesson time. I will try to reschedule within the week, if possible. There are no refunds for missed lessons.
Fall Schedule 2011/2012
*Please note that each year I take two weeks of paid vacation. The dates are not set yet.
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September
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Beginning week is 9/6. Because 9/5 is Labor Day, Monday students may either come to their regular Monday lesson or schedule a lesson on Friday 9/9.
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October
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November
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Thanksgiving week
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Mon, Tues and Wed lessons are on regular day ,
Thurs students may reschedule.
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December
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Sunday 12/18 3:00 p.m.
No lessons 12/26 through 12/29.
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Recital
Christ Church - Woodbury
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Winter Schedule 2012
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January
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Lessons resume on 1/2
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February
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March
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April
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May
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Sunday 5/20 3:00 p.m.
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Recital 3:00
Christ Church – Woodbury
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