Group Piano Lessons (Classroom Instruction)

There are many reasons why students and families prefer group piano lessons. The three biggest advantages involve affordability, the pacing of instruction, and the social aspect of learning with others and interacting with peers.

1. Affordability - group piano lessons cost less. There are some variables, but the average cost of group lessons is about 65% of the cost of private lessons.

2. Pacing of Instruction - group piano lessons encourage students to keep on pace. Students in the class move through the curriculum together, and, with guidance and encouragement from the teacher, create a learning environment that is supportive, nurturing, collaborative, and mutually rewarding. Students get very comfortable playing in front of others, and always have a small audience to practice performing for, which stimulates the development and improves progress.

3. Social Aspect - many students enjoy learning with others and interacting with peers. We strive to place students into appropriate age groupings, and in these learning environments, close bonds and lasting friendships often develop. Students have more opportunities to play duets and make music together as an ensemble, which can help with rhythm, blend, and teamwork, and better prepare them for school music such as band, choir, and orchestra.

Students will advance further and faster with our exceptional 60-minute group piano lessons than with any ordinary piano teacher’s 30-minute private lessons!

“I have been impressed with Dennis’ instructional instincts and his ability to make connections with his students. Dennis’ ability to form relationships and rapport with students evident both in his teaching and in student performances. Dennis’ instruction has helped our students grow in their abilities and their confidence to perform on stage.” — Sarah O.

Individual Piano Lessons (Private Instruction)

There are many reasons why students and families prefer individual piano lessons. The three biggest advantages involve one-on-one teacher instruction, curriculum, pacing, and schedule customization, and preparation for outside activities such as recitals, exams (e.g., Music Teacher Association of California Certificate of Merit), special performances, competitions, and auditions (e.g., for Orange County School of the Arts, the Saddleback College Applied Music Program, or university/conservatory entrance requirements).

1. One-on-one Teacher Instruction - students receive individual private instruction from their teacher. The entire lesson time and all of the teacher’s attention are devoted to one student.

2. Curriculum, Pacing, and Schedule Customization - teachers have the flexibility to tailor the curriculum and pacing of instruction to each individual student. For example, additional piano pieces can be added to the sequencing, substitute pieces, or pieces of special interest to the student. A student who loves to sing and play can do more singing and play in lessons, and a student who wants to learn to play the jazz piano can do more improvising in lessons. In addition, there are likely more day and time options available for individual lessons (group class days and times are predetermined according to the course catalog and class schedules).

3. Preparation for Outside Activities - students who wish to play non-standard repertoire at recitals (such as themed music) or want/need to learn pieces for special performances, competitions, or auditions can do so more easily by taking individual piano lessons. Also, students who wish to participate in exams such as MTAC CM and others can get the dedicated instruction they need during their regular lessons (students in group classes can do these things but must take the extra weekly class rather than do the work in their group setting.)