Catherine Hicks Music Tuition
Catherine Hicks Music Tuition
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Offering quality piano, flute and theory tuition ... for exams or just for fun.
PIANO
The Instrument
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​In order to learn piano you will, obviously, need an instrument.
An ordinary upright piano, such as the one pictured to the left, is ideal.
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However, many families these days do not have the space in their homes for such a large piece of furniture. The second best option is a digital piano on a sturdy wooden stand, with full size keyboard and realistically weighted keys.
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The next best option is a keyboard with weighted keys. It is best to purchase an adjustable stand to set this upon.
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The least best option is a 5-octave keyboard. These are very portable often come with many different sounds and beats and can be a lot of fun to play with, but unfortunately are not ideal for learning much beyond the basics.
Beginners
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Beginner students use the "Learn the Piano" series by Dulcie Holland. Dulcie was an Australian composer and her cheerful piano method is eminently suitable for younger students. As beginners work their way through the method I will supplement their repertoire with other songs and pieces suited to their level. Usually by the time students have worked through Book 1 and 2 of Dulcie's method they are ready to progress to AMEB Preliminary Grade and prepare for their first exam.
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​In addition to the "Learn the Piano" method, all students are taught level-appropriate technical exercises. These will include scales, arpeggios and technique building studies.
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To compliment the practical aspect of piano study, all students are supplied with Theory worksheets tailored to their specific needs in order to consolidate their understanding of written music.
Intermediate - Advanced
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​Once students have mastered the basics they have the opportunity to begin Australian Music Examination Board (AMEB) examinations. These exams are an excellent tool for many reasons, particularly for providing a goal and the incentive to practise regularly. Once a student has passed their exam they enjoy the pride of achieving their goal. The AMEB piano Grade books are a great way to introduce students to classical composers and they also often incorporate modern compositions into the syllabus.
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Some students do not like the pressure of an examination situation and prefer to play popular music. These students are catered for by learning a mix of traditional classics and modern songs. Their progress is assessed regularly through my in-studio testing system.
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Technical work is an important part of the practise routine of both AMEB exam students and those choosing the alternative, and Theory worksheets are supplied as needed.