Q: I don’t have any previous experience with music, is that ok?
Most certainly! The most important thing is not how much you bring to your lessons, but rather how much you are able to gain from them. If you have the heart to learn, I have the heart to share what I have discovered along my own harp journey.
Q: Do you exclusively teach classical music?
I enjoy teaching my students a variety of repertoire, including Classical, Celtic, early and contemporary music. I do believe that having a Classical background is important for developing the solid foundation and discipline required to excel in all genres.
Students are encouraged to discuss with me the repertoire they are interested in learning so that we may work together to achieve their goals.
Q: Is the harp very difficult to learn?
This depends equally on the individuals approach and dedication to the task.The harp has survived thousands of years because people love to play it! While it is true the harp takes effort to master, its beauty is accessible from the start. Even 'simple' pieces sound lovely and carry an eloquence that can often transcend ones initial aptitude.
The key to musical success is careful instruction from the beginning and a commitment by the student to practice daily, even if only for 20 or 30 minutes. A steady lesson schedule will ensure that you learn proper hand position, solid but relaxed technique, and an effective practise method; these all work together to enable your music to grow. Your commitment is matched by my attention to your goals - to perform, to entertain friends and family, or simply for your own delight.
Q: Do I need to buy a harp right away in order to take lessons?
I suggest that my students rent a lever harp for the first few months of lessons prior to investing in an instrument of their own. When deciding to purchase an instrument, there are many aspects to consider, and I am happy to assist my students so they benefit from my own experience.
Q: Do you rent harps?
While I do not personally rent harps, I do have a close contact in the Toronto-Area who is a reputable dealer and renter of these fine instruments. A quality rental harp can be arranged promptly for you to fit your needs.
Q: Are harps expensive to buy/rent?
Harps are individually produced instruments, often on a by-order basis and with much hand-crafting involved. However, new technology has lowered the price for good beginner instruments in recent years. Prices can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars for a solid instrument. The final cost greatly depends on the individual and their needs.
Many students choose to rent a harp for the first several months of lessons while they develop a familiarity for the harp. It should also be noted that some dealers offer rent-to-own programs which can greatly aid in the purchase of a quality new or pre-owned instrument. Rental rates are generally $80 dollors per month for a quality Celtic lever harp.
Q: What is the difference between a Celtic lever harp and a Concert pedal harp?
In general, lever harps are smaller in size and are operated by manually flipping the levers to change the pitch of the keys. Lever harps are wonderful for playing Celtic, some classical, Hymn, and generally music that does not require frequent key changes. Concert harps are larger in size and are equipped with seven foot pedals to change the keys. This type of harp is found in orchestras, and can be used to play most types of music. Most beginning students start on the lever harps.
For pictures and information about my harps: Harps
Q. What points do your lessons primarily focus on?
In a brief summary, I focus on reading skills, technique, repertoire and basic music history. More advanced students will learn about performing skills, ensemble skills, musicianship, sight-reading, and basic arranging skills.
Students are encouraged to listen to recordings, attend live concerts of all kinds, and explore art forms (other than music) and literature as part of their studies. I have a personal music library which is welcome, available and encouraged to be used. It consists of books about harps, harp history, musician's health and interests, classical music and composers, music dictionaries, videos and DVD's, and over 250 recordings.
There will be two recitals a year to give the students an opportunity to perform in front of an audience, and connect to their fellow-students. All students are encouraged to participate.
Q. What is your perspective on teaching, and what form of experience will students gain from your lessons?
I am dedicated to ensuring that each of my students develope a Healthy, Artistic, Recreational, and Positive experience (H.A.R.P.) to enrich their personal lives.
I believe that the journey of learning the harp can also be a valuable metaphor for ones journey through life; in setting goals, learning new skills, meeting challenges, finding solutions, building self confidence, and taking joy in the satisfaction of accomplishing ones aims.
"To teach, is to touch a life forever."
As a teacher, it has been especially rewarding for me to observe students who come to their first class with trepidation gradually shed their cocoon and emerge on vibrant wings of song.
Q: How often do people take lessons?
Many students feel they benefit the most from weekly lessons to maximize personal progress. However, for those with a busy schedule, bi-weekly lessons are another option to explore. Beginning students often start with 45-minute lessons, although most choose to graduate to a full hour as they progress. 30-minute lessons are suitable for younger beginning students.
Q: How is your teaching schedule divided?
Though I allocate certain days of the week for teaching, I understand that my students' prior commitments and unforeseen events may occasionally cause scheduling conflicts. I attempt to be as flexible as possible with my students by making myself available for weekend lessons and evening appointments during weekdays. Rescheduling an appointment for the same week is also available with prior 24-hour notice.
Q: I am a beginner, when will I be able to play Amazing Grace, or Clair de lune?
This largely depends on the individual student. With consistent lessons and dedicated practice, most of my students, including those who did not have any music background, have been able to play satisfying tunes after the first few months of lessons and even perform for friends and relatives!
Q: Are piano lessons required as a prerequisite for learning the harp?
I don't agree myself. While a background in piano can be helpful, especially with hand coordination, understanding music theory and in developing an acoustic sensitivity, it is in no way a ‘prerequisite’ for learning the harp, or any other instrument. However, advanced students who plan to pursue professional studies in music are encouraged to consider piano lessons to broaden their musical senses.
Q: Do you teach adult students?
Yes. In fact, half of my students have been adults. Every student comes with their own unique set of aspirations, and it is my pleasure to help guide them to realizing their goals.
Q: Are parents of young students welcome to sit in on lessons?
Parents are encouraged to observe the lessons and also to practise with their child at home. They may choose to bring a book or their laptop while waiting. There are also coffee shops, grocery stores and a shopping mall close by for your convenience.
Q: What do I need to do to prepare for my first lesson?
Clip your finger nails to the shortest you can. Bring a manuscript notebook for me to write in. Come with a pair of clean hands, and a positive spirit!
Q: Where do I take my private harp lessons?
Lessons can take place in either Central Toronto or Kingston Westend.
For students in the Toronto area, my studio-apartment is located in the Bloor-West area of Central Toronto, conveniently serviced by both the subway line and bus routes, and plenty of visitors' parking.
For students in the Kingston area, my private studio is at the St. Peter's Anglican Church (4333 Bath Road and Coronation Blvd).
I attempt to be as flexible as possible to fit students' schedules and needs, especially for those who come from longer distance . My students have come from different areas in the GTA, including Oshawa, Ajax, North York, Toronto Eastend, Toronto downtown, Mississauga, Belleville, Napanee, Kingston and Ottawa.
Q: Will I be required to bring my own harp to lessons?
Not at all. Students are able to learn on either my lever or pedal harp.
Q: What are your fees?
60-minute lesson: $55
45-minute lesson: $45
30-minute lesson: $30
|
