Each week 5 points are offered to each student depending on them meeting certain criteria. This includes:
Completed Theory- 1 point
Excellent Performance- 1 point
Cooperation- 1 point
Preparedness- 1 point
Five days of Practice- 1 point
Completed theory is described as the “study of the theoretical elements of music including sound and pitch, rhythm, melody, harmony, and notation” (Dictionary.com). Each week the students are sent home with musical assignments that add to their knowledge in piano. It is required that this section of lessons is done BEFORE class so we will be able to progress each week. It will not be done in class but is necessary for each lesson.
Excellent performance is something I expect every week from the students. This is where each song has very few mistakes, the correct accidental signs, and appropriate dynamics. In advanced students, I want to hear emotion in their piano pieces as well. I do not like to have the student repeat pieces but will assign them again if necessary.
Cooperation is a key in life and here in piano lesson. I try to be fair in my assignments and only challenge the student to what I know they can handle. In return I expect to have the student’sfull attention, respect and positive attitude during piano lessons.
Preparedness includes all piano books, assignment sheets, and recital pieces (if applicable) to be brought with the student to lessons. Without these vital pieces of teaching, my job is very hard and the student will not fully benefit without their materials.
Five days of practice is not a once a month deal but in order to be proficient in piano, each student needs at least 5 days of practice each and every week. Even when the song has been mastered, it is always better to practice as to not forget the elements of the different pieces. Assignments should always be done first, though when the students know that they have everything assigned perfected and completed, they are free to mix it up. They can play past recital pieces, songs from previous books, or anything that catches their eye. I will have a parent sign off the days practiced on the assignment sheet given every month.
A bonus trivia point is offered every two weeks. The question is always related to piano and is posted in the studio on the student's point board. The answer is usually posted here on http://www.playyourlittleheartout.blogspot.com. The student returns to lessons with the answer and voila! An extra point is earned. That is 2 points a month!
A bonus trivia point is offered every two weeks. The question is always related to piano and is posted in the studio on the student's point board. The answer is usually posted here on http://www.playyourlittleheartout.blogspot.com. The student returns to lessons with the answer and voila! An extra point is earned. That is 2 points a month!
Students can choose to save or redeem their points after piano lessons and choose from any prize from the prize bags located in the studio.
Candy- 5 points
Small prize- 10 points
Medium prize- 15 points
Big prize- 20 points
