It’s that time of year, and for many students, it’s back to school. There is something special about a new beginning, whether this is your first year at the piano, or you have taken piano lessons for many years. To get the best return on your investment, both financial and time, read on for my preparation checklist.
Instrument:
If you have an acoustic piano (hint: no need to plug it in), be sure it’s tuned and all the keys work! You will be training your ears, so you want to ensure they have an accurate reference pitch.
If it is digital, does it have weighted keys? Is it touch sensitive? Even for a beginner, good technical skills are best developed on an instrument that responds like a piano. (Not sure what that means? Stop by a piano store - they will be happy to let you play their pianos.)
Additional checklist for portable keyboards:
A keyboard stand OR desk/table, if it’s at the correct height.
A music stand. It usually comes with the keyboard, but some used keyboards may not include the stand. If your keyboard doesn’t have a music stand, a wire stand, like students use in band or orchestra, will be fine.
A bench or chair at the proper height. Ask your teacher, or use the images in the beginning of your lesson book for reference. To ensure that you are at the correct height relative to your instrument, the easiest option is to have both an adjustable stand and bench.
Environment:
Is the area where the instrument is located quiet, or is it in the same room with a TV or video games? If so, that area is probably not conducive to learning. A simple fix may be to use headphones, if possible.
Is the area well-lit? If it’s too dark, try a floor or piano lamp. Good lighting is essential when it gets dark earlier in the evening, especially if you want to see your music. :)
If you take remote lessons:
Plan which device you will use, ideally an iPad or laptop. (A phone is NOT recommended.)
Decide which table or stool is stable and easy to set-up. An iPad stand is recommended.
Update your videoconference software, and/or create an account with the software platform your teacher is using.
Do a sound check. Know how to enable original sound or Wide Spectrum audio.
Do a video check. If you are using an iPad, know how to turn OFF Center Stage.
Other necessary supplies to keep in your practice location:
Pencil
Magazine file case for books
Required practice software
Metronome or metronome app
Folder or 3-ring binder with pocket inserts
Organizational tasks:
discard lesson/assignment slips from the last year
put all sheet music in your folder or binder
if you have siblings, separate your books, and have an agreed-upon plan to keep them separate!
Now that you have prepared your practice environment, you are almost ready! Here are some final reminders:
Confirm your lesson day/time and start date
Keep your lesson attendance as consistent as possible
Decide on a set practice time, and stick with it!
Let’s have a great year! 🙂