Note: Lesson plans and approach are personalized for each student and differ accordingly.  Consultations and specifics are made available on a case by case basis.

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Approach

 

Jan treats each student uniquely in order to meet their individual needs, and chooses music which is both appealing and appropriate for the student's ability.  Jan often plays excerpts of new music for students so that they can be part of the decision making process.  Beginners work from method books with supplementary material, but as soon as students are ready, classical music from the major periods of keyboard history is introduced.

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Beginners are encouraged to learn folk tunes and intermediate and advanced students learn music by composers such as O'Hearn, Joplin, and Gershwin.  Sometimes students learn jazz and popular music, but this music is not typically a primary focus in the Mittelstaedt Music Studio.  Ultimately, Jan is happy to teach students music of their choice.  Learning music that resonates with the student is key to their engagement.

 

No matter what they play, students are encouraged to strive for excellence in their music. Jan follows the same philosophy in her teaching.  She expects students to commit to a consistent practice schedule and to attend lessons and other required activities.

 

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Activities

 

Each student is encouraged to participate in the following activities:

• Syllabus Evaluations (presented by the Oregon Music Teachers Association)

• Senior Recitals

• Three studio recitals per year

 

Many other optional opportunities are also available during the school year, including the following:

• Ensemble, Classical, Baroque, and Composition festivals (presented by the Oregon Music Teachers Association)

• Junior Festival (presented by the Oregon Federation of Music Clubs)

• Competitions and master classes when needed for the student's musical development

 

 

Studio Policies

 

Two make-up lessons may be given during the month of June if students become ill during the year.  For other conflicts, students are encouraged to trade lessons with another student in the studio.  Generally, Jan will work with to reschedule any missed lessons.  Any missed lessons due to teacher illness or emergency are made up during the school year at the teacher’s discretion.

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Typical Lesson Plan

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A typical schedule for students is a one-hour individual lesson weekly for 32 weeks.  Beginners and students who have not yet completed Level 6 of the Syllabus exam may choose to register for 45 minute lessons instead of 60 minute.