FAQ
General Questions
Crescendo Kids Classes (in-person)
Recitals
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Our piano lessons use a variety of methods for a comprehensive learning experience:
Kodály Rhythm: Syllables for rhythmic notes ("ta" for quarter notes).
Ear-Training: Recognizing notes and patterns by listening.
Solfeggio: Syllables for scale tones (Do, Re, Mi) with a movable "Do."
Color-Coding: Colors for keys and finger placements.
Hal Leonard: Easy-to-follow method for beginners.
Robert Pace, Music for Piano: For older students, focusing on pattern recognition and transposing.
Learning Through Fun: Interactive games and activities.
For more details, visit our lesson overview page HERE.
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When a child begins piano lessons, establishing a regular daily practice routine is crucial. Here’s what we recommend:
Daily Routine: Make practice a daily habit, focusing on consistency.
Set a Schedule: Pick a consistent "piano time" that fits your child's routine.
Flexible Practice: Let your child play anything for any length of time during "piano time."
Encourage Enjoyment: Make piano playing fun and enjoyable, integrating it into their daily life.
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For children ages 3-5, piano practice looks different from traditional methods. Here’s what to expect:
Exploring Sounds: Kids will enjoy making various sounds on the piano.
Imitation and Pretend Play: They may pretend to be performers or composers, imitating songs they like.
Discovery: They'll learn which notes sound pleasant and how to control notes with their fingers.
Simple Practice: Playing their lesson song once or twice a day is sufficient.
Creative Play: Encouraging them to create their own music fosters a love for learning.
At this age, making music fun and engaging is key to developing their interest and skills.
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Keeping your child motivated through fun activities is our brand! Here are some tips to keep daily practice interesting:
Short, Frequent Sessions: Practice several times a day for shorter periods.
Repetition: Play each song or section at least three times in a row.
Slow Practice: Practice slowly to play perfectly.
Break It Down: Divide harder pieces into smaller sections.
Set Goals: Have a specific goal for each session.
Special Time: Make practice a special one-on-one time with a parent.
Positive Approach: Never use practice as a punishment.
Live Music: Listen to live music whenever possible.
Recordings: Listen to recordings of current and future music, including jazz or classical piano.
Metronome: Use a metronome during practice.
Self-Critique: Record and review practice sessions.
For more tips, check out our newsletters here.
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Most likely the equipment needed you already have!
Computer or tablet/ipad work best.
Internet connection with at least 5 Mbps upload and 25 Mbps download speed
Keyboard or piano with standard-sized keys
Table or stool to hold your camera device to show your child and their hands on the keyboard
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Traditionally, the best age to start private piano lessons is around 9, but many children are ready to make music earlier. Move Over Mozart’s Crescendo Kids Classes and Online lessons are perfect for younger beginners, bridging this gap. When deciding if your child is ready for private lessons, consider the following:
Do you have a piano or a full-sized keyboard at home? A full-sized keyboard is essential for learning many playing techniques and pieces.
Is your child practicing daily? Private lessons require about 30 minutes of practice, 5 days a week. For younger children, this might be too demanding.
Is your child reading notes on the staff? While private teachers will cover this, our program uses fun theory games to build a strong foundation in music reading.
Is your child at least 8 years old and in 3rd grade? Although some private instructors take younger students, this is the ideal age because children are mature enough to enjoy and benefit from private lessons. Move Over Mozart students have more training and experience than typical beginners.
Has your child outgrown the material in Crescendo Kids? Our program has many levels of achievement, however, it is still a beginning program. If your child completes our curriculum, or seems to moves faster than the assignments, they may be ready for more advanced instruction. Private lessons may provide the challenge they need.
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Keyboards are excellent for learning the basics! They're affordable, portable, and low-maintenance. Their features can encourage more practice and aid in music composition. However, as your child progresses, they'll need the nuance and technique that only an acoustic piano can provide. If you currently have a keyboard, please plan to purchase an acoustic piano in the near future.
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Our Crescendo Kids class, designed for six students of similar age and ability, is a 30-minute session divided into three main sections:
Group Activity: Learn a music theory concept as a group.
Individual Activity: Work on a worksheet or theory game independently.
One-on-One Piano Time: Each student has individual time with the teacher at the piano. For ages 5 and older, this is followed by practice time at a second piano to apply what they just learned.
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Our in-person classes excel at fostering a fun and engaging learning environment, even without a home piano. While practice at home is definitely recommended, it's not required. Our classes adapt to each child's pace, ensuring everyone thrives, regardless of practice time.
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No worries, parents! Young learners benefit most from focused teacher attention, which ensures proper technique and avoids distractions. For older students (ages 5+), we add a practice keyboard so they can apply what they've learned immediately. We prioritize quality learning over the number of keyboards!
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This class is designed for children to participate on their own. The material is age-appropriate, and the teacher will assist if needed. Our classrooms have large windows so parents may watch while still being outside the classroom.
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We cannot offer make-up classes since each session is tailored to specific students. However, your child's teacher will help them catch up on missed concepts when they return. You can also submit recordings and contact the teacher through the practice app for extra help. Additionally, our piano parties provide a great way to get extra "lessons" for free.
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In our 30-minute Crescendo Kids Classes, each child enjoys one-on-one time at the piano with the teacher, along with group and individual activities. This balanced approach reinforces both piano and music theory skills, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience.
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Our classes are for children only, and parents are asked to wait outside.
If you’re interested in learning piano, we offer online private lessons for all ages and abilities. It’s a great way to learn alongside your child!
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Our recitals are fun, relaxed events where kids can share their music with family and friends. We host three main recitals each year—End of Summer, Winter Holidays, and Spring. All recitals are live-streamed, so friends and family can join from anywhere. It’s a great way for your child to gain confidence and enjoy performing!
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Recital pieces will be chosen a few weeks before the recital. An assignment titled, "Recital Songs" will be in your child's lessons on the practice app. This is where you can find which pieces your child chose to perform.
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While our piano teachers are preparing students for the recital, here are some additional ways you can support your child at home:
Practice Regularly: Familiarity with their piece will help your child feel more comfortable and relaxed during the recital.
Memorize the Piece: Although not required, memorizing the song can boost your child's confidence.
Mini-Recitals: Encourage your child to perform for family or friends to become comfortable playing in front of others.
For the Spring Recital, specifically:
Practice on an Acoustic Piano: If possible, have your child play on an acoustic piano once or twice to get used to its unique feel, especially since they will be performing on a concert grand piano.
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The Spring Piano Recital will be held at the Lendemain Clubhouse, located at 14901 123rd Ave NE, Kirkland.
Important: Please use the directions below, as some GPS and online maps may be incorrect.
From I-405, take exit #22 and go EAST.
Turn RIGHT onto 124th Ave NE, just past Woodmoor Elementary.
Turn RIGHT onto NE 149th Ave into the Lendemain neighborhood.
The clubhouse will be directly in front of you at the "T". You will see the wooden walkway, but the building is mostly hidden behind trees.
We look forward to seeing you there!
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Yes, your child needs to be currently enrolled in piano lessons to participate in the Spring Piano Recital. During the Spring session, we prepare students for the recital by selecting a song and practicing performance etiquette.
Register early to secure a spot! If the class fills up, add your child's name to the waitlist, or consider our online classes. We prioritize making room for returning students on waitlists.
Exception: If your child is taking piano lessons elsewhere, provide us with their teacher's contact information to ensure proper preparation. We love having former students perform at the recital! Contact us if you have any questions.
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There is no dress code for the Spring Piano Recital. While our teachers will dress formally or semi-formally, your child should wear whatever feels most comfortable. The goal is for everyone to have fun.
Feel free to dress up, but it's not required! Comfortable clothes are perfectly fine if dressing up will stress your child. Let’s focus on enjoying the music and having a great time!