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Piano Lessons
Tailored to each individual's needs and learning ability
Beginners & All Ages Welcome!
About Me
I started playing piano by ear at four years of age, then began lessons at The Arcade School of Music in Regina, SK when I was six. After only a few years of strict classical training, I moved over to The Academy of Music, a prominent music school founded and run by an amazingly talented musician and educator, Sharon Dyksman, where I could better develop my natural creative abilities as well as continue on in classical music studies.
I began teaching piano part-time while still in high school while continuing my own studies (now under the personal instruction of Ms. Dyksman) until I reached Professional level in both piano and organ. I also mentored students who wanted to learn how to play the keyboard and sing at the same time, who were involved in the Academy's Rock Band program.
In 1984 I took on the role of Keyboard Division Head. In this capacity, I was responsible for ensuring new and upcoming teachers were well versed in the Academy's teaching methods.
The Academy of Music's method of combining arranging, ear, and classical training was incredibly successful and was gaining interest among independent music teachers throughout Southern Saskatchewan.
In 1986, under the direction of the Academy's founder, Sharon Dyksman, I was tasked with creating a formal piano curriculum based on the Academy's methods and presenting this curriculum to all of the lesson centers in Southern Saskatchewan affiliated with the Academy of Music Methods.
I was an adjudicator at many music festivals throughout Saskatchewan and was a regular clinician at numerous teacher training seminars.
The Academy of Music's academic standards were quite high. Students were required to participate in written and playing exams twice per year and perform publicly in recitals and music festivals. Some students excelled, while others became discouraged.
Many things have changed since my time at the Academy of Music, and while I am forever grateful for the education and experience I received there, I believe that all children should have the opportunity to express themselves through music.
When I started Piano With Penny, I wanted to offer a stress-free environment to students of all ages and all learning types. I encourage students to go outside of the box and tap into their personal creative potential. Lessons are tailored to each individual's musical capabilities.
As part of my commitment to maintaining a low-stress environment for children, I do my best to keep up with the most current education surrounding child development.
In the summer of 2020, I became Brain Story Certified through the Alberta Family Wellness Initiative. Please watch the following video on brain development:
My students range in age from 5 to 80! Reach out to me today and awaken your inner musician!
2024/2025 FEES:
$30 per half hour private lesson
$20 per half hour semi-private lesson (2 children the same age in class)
**There are 2 full-size 88 weighted key pianos in my studio
***Alternate week half-hour lessons are available by request - limited spots available***
NEW FOR THE 2024/2025 SCHOOL YEAR:
*** FOR THE BUSY ADULT WHO WANTS TO LEARN TO PLAY BUT CAN'T COMMIT TO WEEKLY LESSONS - 10 minute ONLINE lessons coming soon***
Payments accepted: Cash**, EFT**, Visa & Mastercard.
**Preferred method
POLICIES:
LESSON FEES:
Lesson fees are billed at the beginning of the month for the entire month.
Invoices are billed directly from this website. While CASH and EFT payments are PREFERRED, credit card payments can be made directly from your invoice.
EMAIL address for EFT payments: pianowithpenny@proton.me
Missed lessons:
Please send a notification via text or email ASAP when canceling a lesson. Failure to notify negates the make-up lesson option.
There are NO CREDITS issued for missed lessons. Make-up lessons are OFFERED but not guaranteed.
Discontinuing Lessons: 2 weeks' notice is appreciated.
**Please note: If I feel a child is not ready for lessons or is unwilling to participate, lessons will be discontinued.
** There are no refunds on lessons.
Games & Rewards encourage & motivate!
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