
Are you an adult who used to play piano when they were younger, but had to stop because ‘life’ got in the way? Or perhaps the way in which you were taught caused you to reject it at the time, but you’d like to re-explore it?
Merriam School of Music has more than 700 adult students presently, and whatever the reason for your interest, we’re ready to help you achieve your goals.
We offer courses specifically tailored to an adult learner. Adult students generally have different priorities than young learners, learn at a different rate (generally faster), and therefore require highly personalized lesson planning.
There are two types of lesson available to adult learners: private one-on-one instruction, or group coaching in a band setting (“Band Chops”).
The right expectations
Adult students learn piano, and enjoy piano, in very different ways than a young learner. Playing should be a joy, and a release from the everyday…it shouldn’t be a part of the stress or expectations of a day. That doesn’t mean that playing piano won’t come with it’s share of hard work – but the reasons for the work are one of personal satisfaction, not academic ones.
We’ll always make sure that we’re tailoring our lesson structures to meet your expectations and goals, not ours.
The right repertoire
What’s the best part of learning to play the piano? Getting to play the songs you love! Imagine sitting down to play that BIlly Joel or Elton John tune you’ve always wanted to play…or maybe that Chopin Nocturne you’ve always loved hearing.
We get it. If you spend all of your time learning scales, theory and harmony, and practicing the same song over and over – one you may not even like – this isn’t going to be very fun.
Getting you some enjoyable, quick ‘wins’ so you can feel great, and maybe even show off a little, is what we’re all about.
The right teacher
Not every teacher can switch gears back and forth between 8 year olds and 45 year olds. Being able to communicate in a different manner, quickly change priorities and goals, and most of all, relate to why you’re back at the piano again, takes a special type of educator. We don’t pair our adult students with just any teacher – our team of adult educators has been picked because of years of successful track records.
Goals:
Many adults are seeking personal enjoyment, social opportunities, and methods of mindfulness and relaxation when they choose to learn a musical instrument. They are often less interested in exams, public performance, or highly regimented learning styles. Both our private courses and group coaching course seek to deliver comprehensive skillsets in a manner that stays relevant to adult learners.
Learn a selection of recognizable repertoire
Set low-pressure performance goals that are fun and uncompetitive
Connect you with other adults to enhance the social aspect of learning
Give you the option of progressing more technically, or “keeping things simple”
Format:
Group coaching (Band Chops): Each class takes place between one teacher and up to 8 students, each on a different instrument. All bands are hand-selected by the Band Chops coordinator.
Private: Each class takes place between one teacher and one student, for either 30 or 60 minutes.
The classes will occur at the same location, time, and day of week throughout the year, except for holiday periods, or make-up weeks.
Levels / Ages offered:
Adult lessons are offered at all levels and all genres. Speak to an Admissions Officer about the options available to you, and to discuss what might be the best fit for you and your needs.
Adult Pianos Lessons
Instrument: | Piano |
Length: | 30 / 60 min |
Age: | Adult |
RCM Exam Compatible: | Yes |
Locations: | Oakville, Vaughan |
Start Date: | Throughout the year |
Term: | 40 Lessons/Year |
Admission: | Open admission |
Genre: | Classical, Jazz, Pop, Blues |