Melanie Spanswick talks through how to find the right piano course for you
The first of a two-part article
Piano courses are becoming increasingly popular amongst adults and children learning to play the piano. And to keep abreast of this growing demand, there are significantly more opportunities for this student demographic, with courses for students of all levels, semi-professionals and piano teachers, popping up every year.
My first post offers a few tips for those considering a course, and my second (to be published in Pianist's next newsletter) will offer suggestions for preparing for such an experience.
1
When selecting your course, it may be prudent to decide what you would like to achieve. It might be that you want to study with a particular teacher, or perhaps you fancy playing more chamber music or duets with a fellow pianist of a similar standard, or it could be that you need more experience at performing in public. Look for courses with an emphasis on your chosen aspect. Each one will offer something different and unique.
2
There are piano courses which pride themselves on a really luxurious experience with sumptuous food and beautiful accommodation (although you may pay a premium), whereas others might be held in a school, but offer excellent practice facilities with well-tuned instruments. Offsite B&B accommodation is a prerequisite for some residential courses, which in turn can provide much-needed relaxation and respite from a demanding schedule.
3
Generally, the larger or longer the course, the more fellow students you will meet. Piano courses can be wonderfully social affairs with the same students returning year after year, forming close friendships. This is the primary reason why adult students stick to the same ones; camaraderie can fuel an optimal study experience.
4
If you would prefer to be an observer, attending lessons, workshops and classes, but not participating, then this can be a great introduction. Many courses offer this option but always check with the course administrator. ‘Open class’ policies are most helpful for the less experienced student. I encourage my students to attend as many master classes and workshops as they can, because often more can be learnt this way, without nerves and stress intervening; it’s then easier to decide if this course of study is suitable for you.
5
Some courses are ‘specialist’ with one expert teacher giving master classes for a select group of students (these are usually shorter or weekend courses), whilst others include multiple study options such as theory, aural, composition lessons and sight-reading classes, or the chance to study with more than one faculty member. You may like to take this into consideration, particularly if you are preparing for an examination, diploma or concert performance. For those less confident in their playing ability or skill, there are courses which focus on certain levels; intermediate courses or courses for beginners or elementary players, for example.
The following piano courses are held in the UK and all offer a different experience (they are placed in alphabetical order):
- Chetham’s International Summer School and Festival for Pianists
- Jackdaws Residential Piano Courses
Melanie Spanswick is a pianist, author, teacher and composer. She selected the repertoire for The Faber Music Piano Anthology, and is the author of Play It Again: PIANO (Schott Music), a course for those returning to playing. Melanie gives workshops in Germany, the USA and the Far East; she is a tutor at Jackdaws Music Education Trust, Finchcocks Music and Piano Week, and is now a Schott composer with a new collection of intermediate piano pieces entitled No Words Necessary. www.melaniespanswick.com