FAQs - Discovery Music Academy

Do I need a piano?
Yes. Real pianos respond to the way you touch it. If you press a key with more weight in your arm you will get a bigger sound. If you press a key with less weight you will get a smaller sound. Keyboards that plug into a wall have limited or no capacity to do this. You can learn all the theory and analysis on a keyboard, however, the most fun part of the piano, its sensitivity to your touch, is lacking. For more information on why you need a piano click here. For tips on buying a piano click here.
I don’t have a piano. Can I still learn?
Yes. There are community resources available to help students get started in piano. To find a piano to practice on, you have several options from churches and schools with pianos, to renting a piano, or even being given a piano.Click here for more information on finding a piano to practice on.
I’m not sure I want to commit to lessons. Can I try it out first?
Yes. We offer an introductory 40-minute lesson for $50. If you decide to sign up for ongoing lessons, then this $50 is deducted from the first tuition payment.
What do you provide with piano lessons?
- Weekly private lesson – One-on-one instruction to help you learn skills at your own pace, including technique, reading music, rhythm, theory, improvisation and creativity
- Monthly group lesson – Group instruction where students play for each other, learn performance etiquette, play music games and build camaraderie
- Fall and spring recitals – Recitals are a great way for students to share with friends and family what they have been learning.
- WA State Music Teachers Assoc. Adjudications
  National Guild of Piano Teachers Auditions
  These are both opportunities for students to play for a guest teacher and receive feedback.
- Lesson and Theory books
How long are the lessons?
Weekly private lessons: 40 minutes or 1 hour.
Monthly group lesson: 1 hour.
When are lessons?
Private lessons are Monday - Thursday in the afternoon and evening.
Group lessons are the first Saturday morning of the month (unless there is a holiday, then it is the second Saturday).
How long do I need to commit to taking lessons?
There is no minimum commitment, but we recommend a one-year commitment at a time to see progress.
If you decide to stop lessons, we ask for 30-days notice.
How much does my child need to practice?
General guideline: Five-day practice week and 3 minutes x child’s age each day.
For example, an 8-year-old would practice 24 minutes per day for 5 days.
What is the cost?
Click here to view rate sheet
What are your expectations of parents?
- Provide a good piano for your child to practice on. Tune it yearly.
- Maintain regular attendance at private and group lessons, recitals and special events
- Ensure your child practices regularly
What are your expectations of students?
- A desire to learn to play the piano and have fun.
- Regular practice
- Attendance at private and group lessons, recitals and special events
What happens during the summer time?
We teach year-round with the following scheduled breaks:
- Thanksgiving - one week break
- Christmas - two week break
- Spring Break - one week break
- Late June/early July – two week break
- Late August/early September - two week break
What if I’m gone in the summer?
You have two options:Option One: To guarantee your spot when you return, you can pay the tuition for the months you are absent.Option Two: You can give 30-days notice to stop lessons when you go on vacation. When you return you can re-register, pay the registration fee, and schedule a new lesson time based upon what is available. (This option does not guarantee a spot when you return).

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