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General Questions

Q: How do you handle missed lessons

Missed lessons notified 24 hours prior to lesson time can be scheduled at another time, otherwise lessons will be charged as usual. 

Q: I don't have any musical background or ability; can I still help my child practice?

Absolutely! Just by showing support and demonstrate positive, persistent attitude to your child’s learning will encourage them to learn on. 

 

It is also important to touch base with the teacher periodically to see how we can assist your child together to achieve his/her goal. 

Q: What do you expect of your students? Their parents?

Students:

  • Understand that any learning journey require persistence and diligence

Parents: 

  • To set realistic and achievable goals for your children.  

  • Have transparent communication with teacher. 

  • Participate in assisting your children with their learning/practice journey at home.

Q: Do you accept students who just want to learn for enjoyment?

Yes, students of all ages are welcome.

Q: Do you charge by lesson or by month?

Lessons are charged by month, paid before the first class of each month. 

Q: What are the average ages of your students? 

Around age 9-16 

Frequently Asked Questions (Theory lessons)

Q: Do I need to complete my theory before my practical? 

 

Beginning in Level 5, comprehensive certificates are awarded after both the practical and written co-requisite examinations for that level have been successfully completed. Written co-requisite examinations must be completed before or within five years after the original practical examination in order to receive the comprehensive certificate."

 

If the theory examination is completed first, there is no timeline for the corresponding practical examination to be completed.

 

Source: pg. 96 of the current RCM Piano Syllabus 

Q: How long does it take to finish one level? (level 5-10)

 

Theory 5-8: On average around 3 months 

Harmony 9-10: On average around 8 months 

History 9-10: Depends on students’ English comprehension, but on average around 8 months 

Q: If I’m in a hurry to complete the theory component, what options do I have? 

There is the option to take double classes weekly to shorten completion time. However, this will be recommended to students above age 12 as many younger students need time to absorb the materials. 

Q: Are there different theory lessons for different instruments? 

No, the theory lessons apply to all instruments.

For example, you can complete level 8 theory, and apply it towards two different practical exams, such as piano and flute, to get your certification.

Q: What do I need to prepare for the class?

Students will be asked to purchase their own textbooks, and practice exam booklets. 

Additional class materials will be notified prior to the start of the curriculum. 

Frequently Asked Questions (Flute Lessons) 

Q: Do I need to buy a flute to take flute lessons?

Yes. However, in the beginning, flute rental at your local music stores is another option to see if flute is the instrument you want to learn in the long term before investing in it. 

Q: As a beginner, what should I be expecting from the first month of flute lessons? 

Flute playing is the art of air support and control with the embouchure. 

Exhaling large amount of air on a consistent basis isn’t something our body is used to, so our body will take some time to get used to this new exercise. You may feel light headed in the first month of learning. If that happens, take a short break, take sip of water, and continue your practice. Consistency is the key to good playing! 

Q: How much practice time should students have each day?

I would recommend 30 minutes to beginners. 

Once your body has adjusted, 1 hour daily is recommended. We are habitual animals, make practicing a habit and results will show. 

Q: Do you include ear training in your lessons? 

Ear training will be included to fulfill the exam requirement. 

Q: Do you accept students who want to take the RCM examinations? How long will it take to complete a level? 

Yes, depends on each students’ capability, daily practice time, and learning speed. 

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