Virginia Piano

I start at 4YO. Students learn first their finger numbers, using the black keys. In the very beginning, I have them do a small amount of the 2-3’s or 2-3-4’s, and if I sense that they want a break, I will finish it going the rest of the way up or down the piano, for them.

I also will press down the note, while their fingers are on the keys, if necessary. I won’t press their finger I’ll just press the key right above their finger. This helps them get a feel for it.

And another essential thing I do is, if their motor skills are just barely there, I watch to see their little muscles are trying to hit that note, and I count that as “playing” it. And then, over the next couple weeks, I watch their motor skills improve enough to be able to more easily make those sounds all themselves.

I do take students though, that are just starting to get these motor skills (4yo) and I express to parents that it is a very gentle beginning. And that they will see big changes in motor skills, over the next few months.

After a brief time working on the black keys, I joyfully tell students that, “you’re going to love the white keys they are easier to play”.

Also with very young students in general, we take one or two breaks sitting on the floor playing music piano learning games., flashcards, etc.

I’m Virginia Smith and I teach private piano lessons to adults and kids 4+, since 1996. My piano studio is located conveniently at the intersection of Randall Road and Rt. 20 in Elgin. 847-468-4618.