Learning piano involves mastering a set of techniques and following a structured syllabus. Our piano course has a solid curriculum typically progresses from fundamental concepts to more complex theory and playing styles. 

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Foundational techniques

• Keyboard geography: Master the layout of the keyboard by locating landmarks like Middle C and the patterns of black and white keys.

• Good posture: Sit comfortably at the center of the piano with a straight back. Your arms should be relaxed, with wrists buoyant and fingers curved naturally.

• Finger dexterity: Practice five-finger scales (e.g., C-D-E-F-G) with each hand separately to build finger strength and control.

• Finger numbering: Use the standard finger numbers—thumb (1), index (2), middle (3), ring (4), and pinky (5)—and say them aloud to reinforce proper fingering.

• Hand independence: Practice playing separate parts with each hand, such as holding a chord with the left hand while playing a melody with the right. 

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Beginner level

• Basic scales: Learn C, G, and F major scales. Practice them with one hand at a time and then with both hands together.

• Basic chords: Learn major and minor chords (triads), starting with C major, G major, and F major.

• Simple repertoire: Play simple pieces, exercises, and nursery rhymes to apply new skills.

• Basic sight-reading: Practice reading simple sheet music with a limited range of notes. 

Intermediate level

• Expanded scales and arpeggios: Learn all major scales and arpeggios, then begin learning minor scales and arpeggios.

• Advanced chords: Learn seventh chords (e.g., major seventh, dominant seventh) and inversions.

• Intermediate repertoire: Play more complex pieces from method books and start exploring different musical periods.

• Pedal technique: Learn how and when to use the sustain pedal effectively.

Advanced level

• Full technique: Master scales, arpeggios, octaves, and other technical studies in all keys, often using pieces like Chopin's etudes for technique development.

• Expanded repertoire: Play complex classical and contemporary pieces.

• Music theory: Develop a deeper understanding of music theory and harmony to aid improvisation and composition.

• Performance: Focus on musicality, phrasing, interpretation, and dynamic control. 

Effective practice tricks

• Start slowly: Practice new material at a slow, controlled tempo. Increase speed only after you can play a section accurately and consistently.

• Chunking: Break down a new piece into small, manageable sections. Focus on mastering one section at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Mindful repetition: Instead of aimlessly replaying a passage, repeat it mindfully. Identify a specific goal for each repetition

• Fix weak spots: Isolate the most challenging parts of a piece ("quarantine spots") and give them special attention during practice.

• Prioritize accuracy over speed: Playing correct notes and rhythms at a slow tempo is more effective than making sloppy mistakes while trying to rush.

• Start from the end: When working on a difficult piece, practice the last section first. This ensures the ending is as strong as the beginning.

• Practice hands separately: Focus on each hand's part individually before putting them together. This strengthens muscle memory and reduces mental strain.

• Count aloud: Use a metronome or count out loud to develop a strong sense of rhythm and timing.

• Use your arm weight: For more power and direction, learn to use the weight of your arm to lead your fingers, rather than just relying on your fingers alone. 

Tricks and practice habits

• Ear training: Begin to pick out melodies and chord progressions by ear. This skill develops naturally through consistent practice and active listening.

• Recording yourself: Record your practice sessions. Comparing older and newer recordings is a great way to track your progress and identify areas for improvement.

• Practice with a metronome: Improve your rhythm and timing by playing along with a metronome or backing tracks. 

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Tricks for musicality

• Improvisation: Learn to use scales and music theory to improvise solos and melodies over chord progressions.

• Mastering tone: Learn how to manipulate your tone using different positions, equipment, and effects pedals.

• Learn by ear: Continue to develop your ear to transcribe complex music without relying on tabs or other resources. ​