Programs
Nifty Notes offers many ways to study and engage with music. Begin your pre-schooler’s music journey with an experienced & certified Suzuki Piano instructor, prepare an advanced teenager for senior RCM exam, or get feedback from a professional composer on your creative work. The breadth of the instructor’s training means all students benefit from a teaching style that is broad-natured rather than didactic, demands excellence at all levels, and prepares students of all ages to be creative, well-rounded musicians.
How to Start
It all begins with a meeting.
Piano Programs
Schedule an Interview
All ages
After initial contact to determine your interests and wishes, you and your child are invited to the studio for a meet and greet. This gives parents a clearer picture of the studio’s culture and expectations, and most importantly gives your child a chance to make sure they feel comfortable with a new prospective adult in their life. Children often study with the same teacher for many, many years, so ensuring a good personality fit is paramount. It is equally important that the parent and teacher are on the same page regarding goals, practice commitments and overall expectations.
After the Interview
If you feel the studio may work for your family and has scheduling that works for you (discussed in the interview), ensure you thoroughly read the studio policies and fee structure to ensure it works for you. Suzuki families must also do four lesson observations and complete a parent training course.
Get Ready
If you don’t already have one, you will need a quality, tuned acoustic piano in your home. In rare cases, a keyboard may be agreed upon (i.e. for students studying jazz, composition or pop music), but never for beginners. Young students also need an adjustable piano bench and footstool. Suzuki students will receive a custom supply bag from ESPS.
Register
All students submit a registration form and non-refundable $50 fee to hold their space. Fees for new students must be received by Sept. 1 or the space may be forfeit. Suzuki students must register directly with ESPS.
