Program At-A-Glance

  • Weekly Private Lessons
  • Monthly Studio Classes
  • Skill Assessments
  • Masterclasses and Workshops
  • Performance Opportunities
  • Preparation for Exams, Auditions, and Competitions
 

Private Lessons 

One-on-one instruction is the cornerstone to learning how to play a musical instrument. I use a highly personalized approach with each student, merging elements from the Russian Children's Music School (DMSh) with traditional and contemporary method books. 

Lessons are offered in lengths of 30, 45, or 60 minutes, either once or twice a week. The appropriate lesson length and lesson frequency is agreed upon at the time of registration. New students are eligible to take a free introductory lesson/consultation before making a commitment for the semester. 

Although weekly lessons are the norm in North America, my music education background is primarily Russian, where students receive one-on-one instruction twice a week from the time that they enter a music school (usually at six years old). From my experience as a teacher, students who take two lessons per week, even if for only 30 minutes, progress more quickly than those who have only one lesson. This is especially true for younger students who tend to do better with shorter lessons. With students who choose this model, I usually dedicate one lesson to repertoire and the other to technique. In the past, one of the main obstacles to taking more frequent lessons has been scheduling and transportation. These days, virtual lessons make this scenario more feasible; for instance, some students opt for one in-person lesson (when regulations allow) and one over Zoom. 

 

Studio Classes

Studio classes are designed to provide informal performance opportunities while building community within the studio. All students perform in each class and give each other feedback in the form of positive comments and constructive criticism. This encourages "active listening" (i.e. listening for specific details in a piece/performance) and provides an opportunity for students to develop pedagogical skills. It is a well-known fact that when we teach something, we gain a deeper understanding of the subject ourselves. When students give actionable feedback to their peers, they are more likely to implement the same strategies in their own practice. Because of the age differences among the students, I often have a seven- or eight-year-old giving comments to a seventeen-year-old. In a world where children are generally segregated by age until they graduate high school, I am committed to fostering equality and respect in my studio, regardless of age, race, gender, color, ethnicity, religion, disability, or other characteristics.

At this time all studio classes are being held over Zoom.

 

Skill Assessments

All students are required to complete skill assessments as applicable to their playing ability each semester. These assessments are similar to examinations held by the Royal Conservatory of Music, but are broken up into separate components to take place at different times throughout the year. A guest teacher is invited to sit on the panel and to give constructive comments to the students. Beginners can expect to play a few scales and pieces, while more advanced students may also be required to play orchestral excerpts and sight read. The atmosphere is friendly and encouraging, with the goal of helping students to prepare for more formal events such as auditions, exams, and competitions. 

 

Masterclasses and Workshops

While the pandemic has been devastating in a multitude of ways, I am beyond grateful for the transformation that technology has made in the world of music education over the past year. I remember having to fly to other countries for masterclasses, but now it is possible to learn from international artists without even leaving your living room!

I deeply value my own experiences of playing in masterclasses, and the only regret I have is that I did not play more. I strive to facilitate more of these opportunities for my students by occasionally inviting a guest teacher to conduct a masterclass or workshop. Participation in masterclasses is usually limited to about four students, but everyone is expected to attend in order to learn from the guest teacher.  

  

Performance Opportunities

Performances are the milestones of our musical journey, and an essential part of a musical education. All students are required to participate in semesterly recitals. Additional performances may be scheduled as opportunities arise. Participation in supplementary performances is highly encouraged but not required. 

 

Preparation for Exams, Auditions, and Competitions

I encourage all students to take part in events outside the studio, including RCM examinations, auditions, and local competitions. Stepping outside our comfort zone can be scary, but it is also profoundly rewarding. Besides gaining performance experience and boosting confidence, participating in additional musical activities can spark lasting friendships and forge valuable connections in the music world. 

 

Tuition

Payment is arranged in two semesters, with flexible scheduling during the summer. The tentative dates for the 2021-2022 academic year are as follows:

Fall Semester
September 5, 2021 - January 22, 2022

Spring Semester
Januray 23, 2022 - June 4, 2022

 

Studio Location

My home studio is located in Gatineau, QC, less than 20 minutes from downtown Ottawa. 

All lessons are currently being held online over Zoom.