PIANO LESSONS:

Lessons:
Students will have weekly 30-, 45-, or 60-minute private lessons. During lessons, students will perform songs that they have practiced and will be evaluated on whether or not they were able to master each song both technically and stylistically. Beginning and intermediate students will use the Piano Adventures method book series, advanced students will be given material on an individual basis. NSMA keeps all of these books in stock and will help pick appropriate levels and materials for all students, books will be required to be purchased (costs are approximately $25 per method book set).

Technique:
Students will learn the basic techniques of piano playing. This includes (but is not limited to): body posture, hand positioning, building finger strength for flexibility and endurance, and using the foot pedals. Students will also learn the stylistic techniques that vary between genres and will be able to correctly apply that knowledge to the songs being learned

Theory:
Understanding theory is an integral part of learning music in general. All students in the Academy will learn how to read music and understand basic music theory. Theory training will be provided as part of the private lesson at no extra charge beyond the cost of any books and materials needed. Advanced theory training is available for those students who wish to go beyond the basics.

Practicing:

Piano students must have a piano or keyboard to practice on at home. Students are required to practice and complete their assignments every week. Aside from obvious musical benefits, practicing will help to develop self-discipline, persistence, and devotion. On average I require students to practice 5-6 days per week for 20-30 minutes per day (depending on age and attention span).

Performance Opportunities:
Performance helps build confidence and is a means for students to receive affirmation of their progress. North Star Music Academy offers four recitals each school year – our Halloween Recital in October, Winter Holiday Recital in December, a student-picked theme recital in March, and the Spring Recital in May. Students are expected to perform in at least one recital each school year, but are encouraged to perform in all of them.

VOICE LESSONS:

Lessons:
Students will have weekly 30-, 45-, or 60-minute private lessons. During lessons, students will perform songs that they have practiced and will be evaluated on whether or not they were able to master each song both technically and stylistically. All students will be given appropriate material based on each individual student and their vocal range and abilities. There is a $25.00 (plus tax) unlimited sheet music fee that will be applied to the beginning of each semester (or when the student starts lessons).

Technique:
Students learn the basic techniques of singing. This includes (but is not limited to): body posture, breathing techniques, enunciation, and matching pitch. Students will also learn the stylistic techniques that vary between genres and will be able to correctly apply that knowledge to the songs being learned.

Theory:
Understanding theory is an integral part of learning music in general. All students in the Academy will learn how to read music and understand basic music theory. Theory training will be provided as part of the private lesson at no extra charge beyond the cost of any books and materials needed. Advanced theory training is available for those students who wish to go beyond the basics.

Practicing:
Voice students must have access to a CD player and/or the internet to practice at home. Students are required to practice and complete their assignments every week. Aside from obvious musical benefits, practicing will help to develop self-discipline, persistence, and devotion. On average I require students to practice 5-6 days per week for 20-30 minutes per day.

Performance Opportunities:
Performance helps build confidence and is a means for students to receive affirmation of their progress. North Star Music Academy offers four recitals each school year – our Halloween Recital in October, Winter Holiday Recital in December, a student-picked theme recital in March, and the Spring Recital in May. Students are expected to perform in at least one recital each school year, but are encouraged to perform in all of them.

PLEASE NOTE: North Star Music Academy welcomes ALL who wish to study music and does not discriminate based on gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, and socio-economic status. We hope to create a welcoming and safe environment for all to learn and enjoy music.