I'm a student of Edwin Gordon's Music Learning Theory. Gordon believed that we learn music like we learn a language - through audiation. When we internalise music and immerse ourselves in its language, only then can we fully understand how to create it.
While there are music-reading elements in class, emphasis is placed on humming, singing, and ear training more than your average lesson.
I keep our lessons fun and engaging, because learning a new skill is 100% easier when it's actually interesting! We also learn new concepts & skills in many different ways, including:
No two people are exactly alike, and music goals aren't either! Our lessons are designed to nurture not only technical skills but also artistic expression, creativity, and emotional well-being. We integrate a variety of musical styles and techniques to ensure a well-rounded learning experience that fosters a deep, lifelong connection to music!
Improvisation is a great way to learn the more complicated skills in a fun way. I mainly utilize improvisation to teach scales and audiation. It's also a useful tool for learning about dynamics, tone, and expression in music.
SMS is a neurodiversity-affirming, LGBTQ+ affirming, culturally responsive, and inclusive music school that supports Black Lives Matter and welcomes students of all abilities, backgrounds, skill levels, and identities.
Please reach us at karasongbirds@gmail.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.
It depends on the student! Each lesson is tailored to suit the student's needs and goals, however, below is a standard guide:
Younger beginners usually have 30-minute lessons once to twice a week.
Intermediate students, older beginners, those taking exams and/or elective music classes at school have 60-minute weekly lessons.
If I drive to you:
$75/hour
I only offer 30 minute lessons for families with siblings who can be back-to-back for at least one hour, or in facilities (schools, churches, etc) where I have multiple students.
I never want cost to be a barrier to music lessons. I also offer sliding scale on a case-by-case basis. Please feel free to reach out <3
Introducing music early can greatly benefit your child! My number one recommendation is for all young children to start off with my Music Play group class. Music is like learning a languge - the more they get to experience it internally and babble in it, the more they'll be able to imitate and embody it - providing more of a benefit in the long run!!
Imagine two scenerios: 1) signing up a child for 1-1 French lessons hoping for results. or 2) siging up your child for a French immersion school, where they get to experience daily life in the languge and play in it
Odds the 2nd child would be able to speak French languge with ease and confidence!
The same goes for music. The more we expose our young people with music in an informal, play-focused environment, the easier it'll be to assimilate and create it.
That varies, so please contact for up to date availability.
Certainly, there are several choices for those interested in learning piano. I generally suggest an acoustic piano over a digital one and am happy to provide specific recommendations.
Students who regularly practice on electronic keyboards often experience stiffness in their wrists and upper bodies, which can hinder the development of proper pianistic techniques, artistic expression, and tone quality. Therefore, long-term practice on electronic keyboards is not advisable. However, this is a fine option for those who are vocalists.
Nonetheless, digital pianos can be a practical option for many families. If you choose a digital piano, please make sure it has a full-size keyboard with 88 keys, fully weighted and touch-sensitive keys, and a permanent sustain pedal. Some digital pianos are definitely better than others, and I can help you find a suitable one.
Though there are some exceptions, I no longer offer makeup lessons unless I must cancel, or there's an emergency.
Edwin Gordon, The Gordon Institute of Music Learning
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