Do you offer lessons online?

Yes, we can do online lessons. But in-person lessons are available again.  Additionally, you may substitute an in-person lesson for an online lesson so that you do not have to miss a lesson due to illness.

What ages do you teach?

We offer quality and personalized instruction for students aged 4 through adult.

How much am I required to practice?

We believe that quality and consistency in practice is what creates success.  Ideally a music student should practice every day.  We understand that other aspects of life sometimes get busy, and if you find that you are regularly skipping days between practices, you need to reassess your goals.  The biggest motivation you will ever find is your own success.

During lessons, we notate weekly goals and practice suggestions in the student's assignment notebook.  We also spend time discussing ways to efficiently practice specific areas of their music.  In the event that a student is not adequately prepared for a few consecutive lessons, we will discuss what can be done about the issue and, upon being asked, we will suggest a required amount of minutes per day for practicing. 

What kind of instrument do I need?

For piano students, an acoustic piano (that is properly maintained) is ideal.  For beginner players in their first years of playing, a digital piano is acceptable, as long as it has graded, hammer-weighted touch-sensitive keys and a sustain pedal.  It must have a minimum of 61 full-sized keys.

Do I need to pay for books and materials?  

Yes.  Book costs differ from student to student.  If you contact us with your playing level, we can estimate book costs for you for the year. 

What events and opportunities does the studio provide for students? 

The studio schedules a number of exciting events for private students and their parents each year!  

• Studio Recitals | Performing in a formal recital setting is an exciting opportunity for students to showcase their hard work and improvement over the year in the presence of their family and friends.  This year's recitals are being held at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in St. Albert, on their beautiful Petrof grand piano!
• Community Recitals |  In past years, the students of Upbeat Music Studio have performed several times in a local Extended Care Centre, the Citadel Care Centre. We are always happy to reach out and share our talents with the senior members of our community!
• Examinations | Students are welcome to participate in theory examinations and/or performance evaluations through the Royal Conservatory of Music. These opportunities require exam fees.  Please contact us for further information.   

Why is the annual tuition divided into 10 equal monthly payments?  Why can't I just pay per lesson?  

Music teaching is our career and our livelihood (although it hardly feels like a job sometimes because we enjoy it so much). Setting an annual tuition rate allows us to have a regular income all year long.  It also makes it easier for students/parents to budget since they know exactly what to expect each month.  Your lesson spot is reserved for you for the year.  During your lesson time, even if you cannot physically attend your lesson, we are working for you, either through planning, recording, researching or holding a video lesson.