Piano Lesson Age 5 or UP
Duration : 45 mins / 60 mins
Warm-up Exercises: Begin each lesson with finger warm-up exercises such as scales, arpeggios, and finger independence drills. Encourage using all five fingers evenly and with control.
Technique Building: Teach proper hand and finger placement on the keys, emphasizing relaxation and flexibility. Practice exercises like finger lifts, finger taps, and finger legato to strengthen fingers and improve dexterity.
Introduction to Arm and Elbow Use: Explain the importance of using the whole arm and elbow to produce a beautiful sound with expression. Demonstrate how to use the weight of the arm to press the keys rather than relying solely on finger strength.
Expressive Playing: Teach students to connect emotionally with the music by exploring dynamics (soft vs. loud), phrasing, and articulation. Encourage them to experiment with different touches (legato, staccato, etc.) to convey the mood of the music.
Repertoire Selection: Choose pieces that allow students to apply and develop their technical skills while also expressing themselves musically. Start with simpler pieces and gradually introduce more challenging repertoire as they progress.
Listening and Analysis: Listen to recordings of professional pianists performing pieces with expressive playing. Analyze the performances together, discussing how the pianists use arm weight, dynamics, and articulation to convey emotion.
Regular Practice Routine: Establish a regular practice routine and encourage students to practice regularly to reinforce technical skills and develop muscle memory.
Positive Reinforcement: Provide positive reinforcement and encouragement throughout the lessons to keep students motivated and engaged. Celebrate their progress and achievements, no matter how small.
By focusing on technical finger training and expressive playing techniques using the arm and elbow, you can help students develop strong foundational skills and musical sensitivity at a young age.