Piano Pedagogy

Piano Pedagogy (Including ARCT Pedagogy Exam Preparation) Starting September 21st, 2021

Taught by Derek Chiu (BMT, MMus) and David Stone (BMus)

Every piano teacher is looking to grow their studio, learn new methods for inspiring their students, and deepen their love and connection to their art. This Piano Pedagogy Course, taught by renowned instructors Derek Chiu and David Stone, will help teachers give students their very best from the first interaction to the most recent recital and beyond.

This 30-week course will not only prepare younger teachers for the Viva Voce exam (Elementary Piano Pedagogy, written and oral exams), but will also provide seasoned teachers with new ways to enhance the lesson experience for their students and themselves. In addition to two individual observations for everyone in the course, teachers will work collaboratively with instructors and their colleagues to develop new skills, ideas, and implementations.

Course participants will be mentored by Derek Chiu and David Stone, two active and respected professionals who have over 50 years combined international teaching experience from beginners to post-graduate students. Their students have gone on to illustrious careers at Cleveland Institute, Berklee College of Music, Manhattan School of Music, University of Toronto, McGill University, and many more.

Highlights of the course include:

  • How to set up, administer and run a functional, successful studio

  • How to attract prospective students and grow your class

  • How to set up student success from day one in person or online

  • How to network, join regional organizations

  • Choosing the right teaching materials and repertoire

  • Handling student or parent issues

  • Learning and developing pedagogical methods to help build essential skills such as pitch, notation, rhythm, musicality, technique, and more

  • Gaining confidence in yourself to be a better teacher

  • Two individual teaching observations during the course, with constructive feedback

Course Fee is $1200 per year, payable in three installments of $400 plus administration fee. Students who choose to pay their tuition in one installment will have their administration fee waived.