Frequently Asked Questions

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1: Why it is so important to acquire the most qualified music teacher, at such an early age, for a child?

Children’s minds are like little sponges, they absorb information very fast. The habits of touching the piano, or violin, cello; the relaxed way of approaching the instrument, and the hands position - are the most essential issues of playing music, and all these habits are developed at an early age. It is very difficult to change bad musical habits later in life, sometimes it is impossible. Many students have come to me at the age of 15, 16, 17, after taking music from a non-qualified teacher, and asked if I would prepare them for the professional carrier in music. I am doing my best, but if these children had come to me at the age of 5, 6 years old, by now they would be so accomplished that they would have the option of scholarships at the best Universities in the Nation. The professional music performing field is very competitive, so in order to be good enough, it is better to start early with the most qualified teacher, that way your child will have much better options later in life.

2: Do I have to have a piano?

Yes, you do. You have to have an acoustic piano, because a mechanical piano/electronic keyboard reacts differently to the touch. You can start with the keyboard for about 3 months, than you will need an acoustic piano. An upright piano is just as sufficient as a Grand piano.

3: What is the best age to start piano lessons?

The recommended age to start is 5 years old. In some cases when child is very talented it is possible to start at the age of 4.

4: How often do we need to take lessons?

It is best for beginners to take more frequent lessons - two 30 min. lessons per week. For more advanced students 1 hour a week is sufficient.

5: I do not want to push my child. If he likes it we will support him, if not, he can quit.

Music is a very demanding and intellectual field. Music has a lot in common with arithmetic. If you want your child to develop musical skills, you have to make their music lessons a very important part of your child’s general development, incorporating his lessons as with his school work. Sometimes this process is simple, sometimes it is not. Either way quitting should not be an option. Based on my experience, I can tell you that consistency brings better results than just musical talent.

6: How do music lessons affect your child’s general development?

Discipline, self esteem, a sense of accomplishment, a feeling of achievement compared to other children, the development of great memory skills, coordination, a respect for hard work, a broader understanding of the World. Music Education develops logic, emotional expressiveness, a joy of sharing through music; your child will develop an esthetic view for the beauty of the world.

7: How can music influence your social life?

Music becomes your best friend for the rest of your life and creates fellowship for intellectual, cultural and emotional communication. You do not have to become a professional musician to play for your own pleasure. For a lot of Physicians music is an intellectual escape from their stressful, every day lives. Strings players, all their lives, can play in orchestras, piano players can play at churches and synagogues . And, of cause Music opens the door to understanding, it is truly the universal language. If you study music you will enjoy going to concerts and become a well educated citizen.

8: What makes Russian Piano School different from the other Piano Schools?

Russian piano school has taken its special place among the different European schools. It can be defined by: great attention to details, a deep understanding of musical styles, freedom of technique, beautiful sound, and the art of phrasing.

9: What is your curriculum?

My teaching process consists of 2 aspects; Sociological and Technological Sociologically - encouragement and a positive attitude is the key factor in your child’s achievements. We encourage our students to develop beyond any limits they might think they have, by focusing on the process of learning there are no limits to their abilities. Technologically - we give your child all the basics necessary for professional music development.

10: What does it take to become a good pianist?

It takes 3 components: devoted parents, a professional teacher and a willing, attentive student. If one of these components is missing , it is impossible to reach the desired progress.

11: What makes your method different?

1-We pay close attention to free posture and correct hand position.

2- We instruct our students to analyze the music, so they can see the pattern, verses just individual notes.

3- We incorporate in our teaching process: analysis of musical form, basic knowledge of harmony and understanding of different musical styles.

4- We devote so much attention to technical development ( an ability to play fast and relaxed)

5-We pay a great deal of attention to the quality of sound and smoothness of the note connections (Legato).

6-We develop performance constancy by having recitals every 2 months.

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