musicianship for all

Music has always been a large part of our lives.  We both began taking piano lessons at four years old and fell in love immediately. We share our enthusiasm with our students while teaching the skills they need to become confident players. We incorporate all styles of music (classical, jazz, blues, rock & show tunes) and tailor every lesson plan to the individual. Music theory, history, and composition are included from the beginning. It is inspiring for us to see students progress through their lessons and grow as both musicians and well rounded people!

We are classically trained through the Royal Conservatory of Music. We believe strongly in their comprehensive curriculum of music study and assessment which integrates repertoire, technique, theory and musicianship. Leveled advancement motivates students, helps them set and achieve goals, and instills a sense of accomplishment as they improve.

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performance

Each semester includes one recital at the beautiful South Oxford Space in Fort Greene. Participation is strongly encouraged as it provides a tangible practice goal and an opportunity to celebrate one’s accomplishments. The recitals allow the students (and occasionally the parents!) to work together and perform not only piano duets but other instrumental collaborations as well.  The post-recital reception builds a sense of community among students and their families.

Additional opportunities to perform vary each year. Our students have had the honor of playing at Carnegie Hall, Steinway Hall and many school talent shows. We have successfully prepared our students for music program auditions (including Mark Twain Intermediate School and LaGuardia High School) and examinations with the Royal Conservatory of Music

tuition

Private, weekly lessons are $45 per 30-minute lesson and billed on a semester basis. See the calendar for a full list of dates.

Students are responsible for purchasing their own music.

Fees are payable via Venmo or personal check at or before the first lesson. Should a student become interested in lessons at any point in the semester they may begin then, space permitting. The fee will be pro-rated to reflect the number of lessons remaining.

 

at-home practice

Students are required to practice at home between lessons. Daily practice is vital to musical progress. The recommended amount of practice time is dependent on their age and skill level and will be discussed with them in class. 

10-15 minutes per day for beginning students, 30+ minutes per day for those with more than a year of lessons under their belt are good guidelines.

cancellation policy

A student's regular weekly lesson slot is reserved exclusively for them. Therefore, there are no refunds for lessons missed due to student absence or cancellation. A make-up lesson may be arranged only if mutually convenient. A lesson cancelled less than 24 hours in advance cannot be rescheduled.

 

drop-off lessons

To maximize student comfort and concentration it is requested that students are dropped off for their lessons. 

Siblings with back-to-back lesson times may wait quietly on the sofa if desired. 

teachers

Lessons are available with either Oliver or Sarah.

Oliver has completed his RCM level 10 piano and is studying audio production engineering at SAE Institute in NYC. He works weekends in a recording studio. Lessons with Oliver take place in our Park Slope Studio.

Sarah has completed her RCM level 10 piano. She also plays guitar and is a freshman at SCAD studying Fashion Design. Lessons with Sarah take place virtually during the college term and in person over the summer.

 
Steinway Hall performance

calendar 2023-24

Fall Semester: September 11 - February 2

Spring Semester: February 5 - June 21

There will be no lessons on the following days:

  • November 24 - 27 (Thanksgiving)

  • December 24 - January 2 (Winter Break)

  • February 19-23 (Mid-Winter Break)

  • March 18-22 (Studio Closed)

  • April 22-30 (Spring Break)

Annual Recital: Saturday, June 8 @ 10:30

contact

Oliver Millward
t: 347 466 1723