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Lessons

Introduction and Philosophy

I teach music theory, technique and ear training through fun, engaging lessons, and encourage students to explore new sounds and styles while furthering favorites. Students are exposed to a full range of genres including classical, jazz, rock, pop, and even movie and video game soundtracks through careful selection of repertoire and exercises based on students' needs and preferences. Lessons may also include composing original music, arranging and music production. I recognize that every student is unique, from the shape of their hand to their personality and their learning style, and tailor each lesson to bring out the best in them. Instruction can be relaxed or rigorous depending on the students goals for the lessons - either way, I make sure that learning the piano is always a fulfilling and fun experience.

Location

Lessons take place in-person at the student's home. I offer the following travel options within a 30 minute radius of my home in Sunnyside, Queens.

  • Piano Lessons in Queens — all neighborhoods in western Queens.
  • Piano Lessons in Brooklyn — all neighborhoods in north Brooklyn.

Age & Ability

Anyone is welcome to join the Yuasa Piano Studio — I teach kids and adults of beginner, intermediate and advanced levels starting at age 4. Please see Piano Lessons for Kids or Piano Lessons for Adults for more information.

Rates

Please visit the Rates page for tuition rates and payment policies.

Subjects

  • Technique — Development of finger strength, agility, and hand coordination through scales, arpeggios, and exercises.
  • Repertoire — Learning and interpreting pieces from different styles and eras.
  • Music Theory — Understanding the language of music, including notes, rhythms, scales, and chord structures.
  • Sight Reading — The skill of reading and playing music on the spot.
  • Ear Training — Developing the ability to recognize pitches, intervals, and rhythms by ear.
  • Artistry and Interpretation — Conveying emotion, dynamics, and personal expression in music.

In addition to these 6 core subject, students study composition, arranging, improvisation and music production.

Piano Lessons for Kids

What's Included

  • 30, 45 or 60 minute weekly in-home lessons
  • Ear training, music theory, sight-reading, rote learning, keyboard fluency
  • Exposure to a diverse range of musical genres
  • Duets, sing-alongs and off-the-bench activities and games
  • Optional end of year recital participation

Sample Curriculum

*4 to 6 year olds

4-6 y.o. students take weekly 30 minute lessons. I believe that the most important thing for a young student is for them to think of piano lessons as fun, and not work. Children learn through play, so lessons at this age consist of playful learning techniques, such as stories, learning games and music appreciation through off-the-bench activities. Methods I use include the My First Piano Adventure series, the Ready to Play series and Piano Safari Friends. My goal with young students is to continue to foster an interest in the piano so that they will be self-motivated as they mature as pianists.

7 to 10 year olds

7-10 y.o. students take weekly 45 or 60 minute lessons. Beginners will start with a method book such as Piano Adventures Primer Level, while intermediate students will work with an appropriate level method book in addition to supplemental repertoire. Students focus on building solid keyboard technique and reading ability that will lay the foundation for moving onto later intermediate level pieces.

11 to 13 year olds

11-13 y.o. students take weekly 45 or 60 minute lessons, depending on ability and interest level. Beginners will start with a method book such as Accelerated Piano Adventures, while students with prior experience will move on to a variety of repertoires and exercises. Students focus on building solid keyboard technique and reading ability that will lay the foundation for moving onto later intermediate level pieces.

14+

14+
Older students take weekly 1 hour lessons that delve deeper into topics. This can be a particular genre of music, composition, or music production. Choosing a specific area of focus allows each student to master a unique set of skills that will allow them to fully and freely express themselves through music. Musicianship, technique and theory will be examined through the lens of the chosen area of interest. Older beginners will start with a method book such as Adult Piano Adventures or Keyboard Musician for the Adult Beginner.

* I accept students as young as 4 y.o.. However, the optimal starting age varies widely for each individual child, depending on their personality, ability to focus, and mental and physical maturity. If they know their ABCs, can concentrate for 30 minutes, enjoy music and are interested in the piano, then they are probably ready! Book an introductory lesson or contact me for more information.

Piano Lessons for Adults

What's Included

  • 45 or 60 minute in-home lessons
  • Flexible scheduling to accommodate busy schedules
  • Sight-reading, lead sheets, music theory
  • Customized technical exercises for keyboard fluency and ease of playing

Beginner

Adults with minimal to no prior experience will delve straight into the basics. Adult beginners will use a method book specifically written for the older beginner - depending on previous experience, learning style and lesson goals, I will choose a method book such as Keyboard Musician for the Adult Beginner, Alfred's Basic Adult All-in-One, or Adult Piano Adventures All-in-One as a comprehensive introduction to piano playing, while supplementing it with additional repertoire and preferred pieces and styles.

Intermediate

For those who've built a foundation in piano playing, lessons will delve into the next stages of musicianship. Drawing from a curated selection of intermediate-level method books, we'll expand on technique and interpretation. Method books will be complemented with repertoire to challenge the student, while also catering to individual musical tastes and aspirations.

Advanced

Tailored for adults with a solid grasp on piano technique and theory, advanced lessons push the boundaries of expression and proficiency. We will explore intricate pieces that span across styles and epochs. Beyond methodical learning, emphasis will be placed on individual interpretation, performance techniques, and exploring diverse repertoire — always aligning with personal musical passions and aspirations.