Christine Nufer Piano Studio
Pueblo, Colorado
"Music is life; that's why our hearts have beats."
~Cecily Morgan
Piano Lessons - Performances - Accompanying
Lesson Expectations
Students are expected to attend all scheduled lessons. If the lesson is cancelled by the student (or student's family) with less than 24 hours notice, a make-up lesson will not take place and a refund will not be given. If the lesson is cancelled by the student or myself with more than 24 hours notice a make-up or refund will be given.
Students are expected to practice the material assigned at their lessons throughout the week. Every effort will be made to adjust to each student's needs, so reasonable, individual progress is expected.
Performances are not required, but opportunities will be provided and are strongly encouraged.
Keep a positive attitude, be open-minded, and follow directions to make this experience as positive as possible.
Materials
Students must have access to a piano or a full touch-sensitive keyboard at their homes or in a place where they can practice every day.
Repertoire, lesson, and theory books will be assigned at my discretion. These will be either purchased by the student independently from a music store or purchased from me. In either case, the materials must be obtained to ensure continuous and appropriate progress. Expect to spend approximately $50 per semester, give or take depending on the speed of the student's progress and variety of repertoire studied.
Rates and Payment
Rates for half-hour lessons are $20/lesson.
Rates for hour-long lessons are $35/lesson.
Rates for lessons of other durations or group lessons will be determined on a specific basis.
Payment will be accepted either at the time of the lesson on a weekly basis or on a monthly basis, in advance.
In the case of performances/competitions with additional fees, these fees will be discussed at the time of registration for the performance, with the understanding that all fees will be paid prior to the event date.
Statement of Teaching Philosophy
I believe the responsibility of piano teachers does not end with the imparting of technique, notes, and rhythms, but extends to teaching the skills needed to enjoy music. My overarching goal in teaching piano is to share the passion for music which I possess, with the intention of helping them find their own musical passion. I do my best to give each and every one of my students the highest-quality personalized instruction possible, focusing on all aspects of piano. No matter the age or experience level, each student should discover something delightful and new in every lesson, whether that is how to play a specific passage or how to listen to and understand a particular type of music. It is these discoveries which will ultimately last a lifetime.
Under my instruction, I will show students that concepts which are stereotypically labeled as “dull” or “boring” are not only exciting on their own, but increase the ability to enjoy music. These include, but are not limited to, music theory, aural skills, and technique exercises, all of which are tools for musical understanding. Just as importantly, they are necessarily applicable to piano repertoire. Regular study of these concepts is an integral part of the lessons I teach, and make it possible for the student to progress more quickly, with better understanding. These elements all contribute to the concept of practicing as more than just a requirement; instead, it is the student’s chance to explore and create their own personal relationship with music.
Additionally, I strive to be a positive influence and trusted acquaintance in the lives of my students, sharing in their musical growth and accomplishments through the years. I consider music to be a wonderful, essential part of life, and sharing it between teacher and student is a special privilege. I am blessed to be able to watch students learn and grow and to see the lifelong love of music blossom in each of them.