Private weekly lessons are 45 or 60 minutes in length, depending on the student’s level. Instruction is founded on developing the total musician and cultivating a lifelong love of music. All programs consist of sight reading, ear training, technical development, repertoire, history, improvising, transposing, and theory. (Additional instruction time is required when also preparing for theory exams.) Students are required to have an acoustic piano and metronome/app at home for daily practice. The recommended amount of practice time varies by age and skill level.

Genres and Levels

Beginners

Beginners of any age spend one to three years learning the basics of music. I offer the choice of several current method books to lay a good foundation and achieve steady progress. As students progress through the final year, they may begin the transition into the classical program.

Classical

I offer instruction in all levels from Level 1 to ARCT of the widely-recognized Royal Conservatory of Music. Students develop their technical facility and music reading ability, as well as gain an understanding of historical styles and interpretation. In addition, students develop ear and musicianship skills. Students in this program may choose to prepare for an exam.

Musicianship

For students wishing to round out their musical skills in order to play in a band or as a church musician, I offer instruction and coaching that draws on curriculums of the Royal Conservatory of Music Keyboard Harmony and Conservatory Canada Contemporary Idioms, and my own varied experience. Students will work on ear training, improvisation, transposing, transcribing, and expanding their theoretical knowledge. Students learn how to play from fake books, lead sheets, and other score types beyond a standard piano score. Recommended prerequisites: RCM Level 6 Piano and Theory.

Performance Opportunities

Many performance opportunities are available. During the year, students participate in regular studio performance classes – a relaxed environment for students-only to build confidence and skill in performing from memory. Studio recitals provide opportunities to perform for a larger audience and celebrate student success. Further opportunities include exams, festivals, local ORMTA events, and Kanata Music Club recitals.

I was skeptical when I heard that piano lessons had to move to an online format due to the covid-19 pandemic but it turned out much better than I expected. Not only is Kathleen a gifted musician and teacher but she is also very technically savvy. Online lessons included dual camera angles and an online music whiteboard to explain theory. Using video conferencing, Kathleen is able to see and correct my form and posture using language and modelling that makes it very clear what I need to change. Kathleen is just as effective online as she is in person.
Cari S.

Scheduling, Payment & Cancellations

Students attend one-on-one weekly lessons at the same time each week for the entire season (September to early June). Several group performance opportunities within the studio are scheduled throughout the year. No lessons will be scheduled during the Christmas and March Breaks, and statutory holidays. Parents and students can check dates posted on the studio calendar.
Tuition is based on a set program of private and group lessons, based on a rate of $52/h. The monthly lesson fee is calculated by the length and number of lessons per term, divided evenly over 10 months.
Reschedules and Cancellations – Regular attendance is expected. When you register, you are reserving the same weekly lesson time in the studio schedule for the entire season. My ability to reschedule lessons is dependent on another student’s cancellation and adequate notice. One week’s notice of cancellation is required if a student wishes to be placed on the wait list of any upcoming cancellations.
Withdrawal from lessons – One month’s paid notice must be given in writing if a student wishes to withdraw partway through the term. No refunds will be granted after April 1.

A complete studio policy is available upon request or at the first meeting.

Piano