private and group piano lessons - FAQ

Learning the piano should be convenient and compatible with a busy family schedule. This is why I offer piano lessons in-person and online or through a combination of both for maximum flexibility and continuity.

Within a short walking distance from Caulfeild Elementary and Rockridge Secondary, Sylvia's studio is located in a calm, safe, residential neighbourhood of West Vancouver, ideal for afterschool classes. Parents can run an errand at Caulfeild Village, or enjoy a brisk walk through the pine forests alongside the beach.

I teach Monday to Thursdays from 8am-8pm with some weekend spaces available.

Piano lessons are divided into 4 terms to reflect the academic school year: 

• Autumn (September - December)
• Winter (January - March)
• Spring (April - June)
• Summer (July - August)  

I follow the RCM (Royal Conservatory of Music), ABRSM (Associated Board), Trinity Music syllabi and also prepare my students for recitals, school talent shows, and competitions. I believe in developing core music skills like rhythm, controlled-tempo, and technique to enhance musical expression. When a student can apply their imagination and interpretation into the music, an artist is born.

Lessons are held once or twice a week.  

Recommended weekly lesson length:

30 minutes for Beginners

45minutes for Intermediate students grade 3-6

1 hour for Intermediate students in grades 7-8

1.5 hours for Advanced students in grades 9-10

2 hours for Diploma students

Students will be given homework and a practice schedule after each lesson. Daily practice is highly recommended  to develop discipline as well as integrating a healthy regular routine. 

Piano exam and performance prep program:  Prior to exams or recitals I encourage my students to enroll in a tailored performance preparation program. The focus of this program is to work on the student presentation skills, emotions management and to ensure their exam/recital piece is tuned for success. This program typically includes a series of up to five 30-60 min coaching and teacher-guided practicing sessions one month leading up to the exam/performance. I put a particular emphasis on the jury's expectations and make sure that my students master the articulation, nuances and rhythm to perfection so that they can achieve the highest distinction at their exams. 

Spring and summer music camp:  Children are engaged with different students outside of their own school and form a musical camaraderie while learning how to be creative in their practice and problem solve with their friends. Musical theory and piano skills are adapted into a fun, collaborative, interactive learning environment.  Sylvia also mixes her violin, ukulele, and  cello, playing to create a mixed medium of sounds in her classes. Classes are small, with no more than 6 children in a group and each child receives individual tailored attention. Please register your interest ahead to reserve your spot one month before the break.

"How do you get to Carnegie Hall?"

-Practice, practice, practice!

For young children learning piano, age 8 and below, I highly encourage parents to get involved. Reading through the homework book together and checking for homework completion will give confidence to your child’s weekly lessons.  Showing interest in their weekly learning, being in the same room as your child, or  dictating their homework each week are some strategies that are proven to work, because your involvement makes piano practice fun. 

For older children, inspire them with an artist/role model by going to concerts. Help them discover that music can enhance their life as well as others by participating in public performances throughout the year (school talent shows, retirement homes, and community centres). With a goal and reward in sight, children become more motivated to practice. 

Teenagers typically want to gain more financial independence. Encourage them to accompany a choir,  complete a piano exam (for a reward), form a collaboration with another musician to perform live music for an event. The possibilities are endless.

For adults, schedule in the daily practice, which is key to progress and enjoyment at the piano.  Practicing 20 minutes a day is better than accumulating the practice for the night before the lesson.