Q. Why should I learn piano?

The gift of music can last you a lifetime! Okay, that’s cheesy, but the point stands. Stepping into the world of music is like stepping into another language. It builds dexterity, improves concentration, assists with problem-solving skills, and connects creativity with discipline.

Learning piano as your first instrument gives you the practical and theoretical foundations to explore other instruments, too!

It’s never too late to learn. Many pick up piano as a hobby in later life, some build foundations when they are young. Whatever your age, courses are designed to be as versatile as possible. Separate books are used for older beginners.

Q. Where are lessons held?

Lessons are held at Aidan’s apartment in Gatineau, QC. On-site lessons are available, and are subject to a $10 convenience fee per lesson to cover travel costs.

Q. How do you track students’ progress?

A logbook including a weekly recap, homework assignments, and progress notes is kept after each lesson, which the student takes home with them.

Q. Do I need a piano at home to start?

Of course not! Coursework can be modified according to a students’ needs. Expect more hands-on learning and opportunities for feedback during the lessons, rather than self-guided homework for those without a set of keys at home.

Q. How do I pay?

Payment can be made via e-transfer to acf.kallioinen@gmail.com or via cash prior to the start of a lesson. If you pay for the full course upfront, get your first lesson free and save $30!

Q. What is your refund policy?

There is a NO REFUND policy for pre-paid courses.

Q. How do you set your rates?

With introductory lessons with an experienced teacher going as high as $60 for a half-hour lesson (and studio lessons closer to $100!), rates are designed to be as affordable and accessible as possible. Rates start as low as $30 per lesson.

Surcharges apply to at-home lessons to cover the associated travel costs.

Q. Do you offer any other courses?

Currently, there are no intermediate or Level 2 courses available, though after 12 weeks, we can continue working through lessons at the same rate as your course. As the number of students grows, new courses may be added. Stay tuned.

Q. What is the difference between “Piano Basics” and “Theory Basics?”

Piano Basics 1 takes you through everything you’ll need to confidently sit in front of a piano and hammer out your favourite tunes. It’s designed to familiarize you with keyboard geography, fingering, playing technique, and lets you learn songs.

Theory Basics 1 builds on the playing techniques found in Piano Basics 1, with a focus on understanding the “building blocks” of music. It’s designed to take you through notation, rhythm structure, intervals, chords, and help familiarize you how music is made.

Taking both courses together gives you a solid foundation on both the “how” and the “why” of beginner piano.

Q. Can I learn songs I like?

Absolutely! Through Piano Basics 1, you’ll have the opportunity to name some of the songs you’ll love, and they can be transcribed to a level appropriate to your skill. Learning is always better when it’s something you’re passionate about.

Inclined to write your own music? Check out the Composition 1 course.

Q. Why must Composition 1 be taken with Theory Basics 1?

Understanding musical composition requires a fundamental grasp of basic music theory. A student taking only the composition course would struggle to understand concepts that can be covered in Theory 1.

Taking both courses together results in a joint one-hour lesson (30 min for each portion) each week. Theory can always be taken alone, of course.