Michael is passionate about maintaining traditional teaching standards and techniques and acknowledges the everchanging interests of many individuals who wish to learn the piano or keyboard.
Whether you are keen to prepare for AMEB exams, wish to learn to play chords to play along to your favourite songs or join a band (secular or church). Michael's priority is to tailor lessons to suit your musical goals.
Formal lessons for beginners include learning the rudiments of playing piano and music theory; however, some students wish to learn more by ear and play from chord charts. Both students are welcome, and Michael fundamentally desires enjoyment playing the piano or keyboard. Students observing improvement in their playing is rewarding regardless of the chosen teaching method.
Michael teaches beginners to an advanced level, where age or background is not an obstacle (however, under 4 years is discouraged). An eagerness to learn and a willingness to devote time to practice is all that is required.
Lessons are usually one-on-one, varying from 30 minutes for beginners, 45 minutes for intermediate and 60 minutes for more advanced players. This is a rough guide, and it depends on the individual's needs and preferences.
From time to time, the arrangement of group lessons of two beginners occur, usually in a 45-minute class; however, this is on a case by case basis.
For pricing, please contact Michael below. Upfront payment for the term is standard, and special discounts & offers are available throughout the year.
FAQs
My child has studied and completed AMEB exams but is interested in playing more music by current artists. Do you teach students how to learn music by ear and play popular music? I want to keep my child interested and engaged with piano.
Yes, developing a reliable ear for music is fundamental to all musicians. Michael places substantial importance on aural development, regardless of the style of music and learning. Lessons are tailored for the specific student’s needs and can be adapted as interests change.
My child is young and has difficulty paying attention in classes. I’m worried a 30 or 60-minute lesson will be too challenging a learning environment.
The benefit of one-on-one lessons gives students a focused and uninterrupted setting to learn. If paying attention is a challenge, the length of the lesson may be adjusted and/or additional teaching tools can be included (e.g. the use of apps on the computer/iPad for interactive learning). Lessons are also broken up into different areas of learning to keep focus and energy. When a child is young (under 5), it might be appropriate to wait to give them time to mature and get used to different learning environments.
I am an adult who has never played the piano before. I have always been interested in learning but never had the opportunity. Is it too late for me to learn?
No. Piano can be learned at most ages if there is a desire to learn and practice. Adult lessons differ from young people and are tailored to the individual’s needs and the desired outcomes – for instance, playing chords along with favourite songs, learning to read music or playing by ear.
I am classically trained but would like to learn jazz and popular music. I don’t want to compromise my technique or waste the years of classical training I’ve had.
Classical techniques underpin lessons at MTMUSIC, despite a specific musical style. Michael believes technical knowledge benefits all playing styles and is incorporated into his teaching methods.
Can you teach at my home? Getting to your studio will be difficult for me.
Peripatetic lessons occur at the MTMUSIC studio, located near the Hills District. Under certain circumstances, Michael may travel for an offsite lesson. This is usually if multiple students from the same family learn on the same day. Travel costs may be incurred, depending on the situation.
Do you teach via Zoom or Skype?
Yes. Michael has taught online for many years due to students living interstate or abroad. COVID-19 shifted face-to-face lessons to Zoom lessons in recent years, facilitated by Michael. Use the contact form for more information.
Do you offer masterclasses or seminars?
Yes. Contact Michael for more information about specific classes offered.