Classical Outline for Beginners
This is Mozart, not David
Whether you aim to take a piano exam, audition for post-secondary education, or simply delve into the repertoire for enjoyment, we will adhere to the following curriculum outline. This outline has been effectively used since the mid-19th century to the benefit of generations of classical music students. It may or may not lead to piano exams. The majority of my classical piano students are preparing for exams. In 2025, I've adult students preparing for Prep B (pre level 1) through Level 10.
"I know that the most joy in my life has come to me from my violin." - Albert Einstein
- Repertoire. Selecting pieces that match your level is crucial. Too easy, and you'll lose interest; too hard, and you'll become frustrated. To draw a martial arts parallel: if you're a white belt, I'll guide you towards your yellow belt. With dedication, you'll eventually reach your black belt. Please provide a list of pieces you wish to master. This will aid me in crafting a curriculum that includes or leads to these works.
- Technique. Musicianship is built on instrumental technique. Piano technique is about training your hands to respond accurately to musical commands. Eventually, technique is ingrained, allowing artistic and technical choices to be made instinctively within a piece, passage, or even a single note.
- Sight-reading. Proficient sight-reading skills facilitate the learning of new pieces. Sight-reading involves pattern recognition by integrating your technical and theoretical knowledge with auditory skills.
- Ear training, aural skills, and playing by ear makes everything easier. Including memorisation. And I know from personal experience that playing by ear is a skill that can be taught. You will learn to identify intervals, chords, chord progressions, and melodies through a graduated approach from simple to complex.
- Theory is vital to understanding what you are doing. It is also invaluable in memorising music. Furthermore, a solid foundation in theory and its musical basics will aid your sight-reading, comprehension, musical sophistication, and your ability to clearly communicate with your teacher.
- Practicing. I agree with Pavarotti that practice is a form of devotion. I will instruct you on how to practice as an expert musician does.
"I know that the most joy in my life has come to me from my violin." - Albert Einstein
"I know that the most joy in my life has come to me from my violin." - Albert Einstein