Simpedia

Robin Keehn, Washington

Here is what I say during my FIS. At the end, I let them know that a parent is required to attend and participate in the lessons. I want them to see the value of what is being taught; and just like a child cannot possibly articulate what they learned in school, they cannot tell their parents what they learned at a lesson.

Further, having music as a lifelong companion requires a long-term relationship and that requires the parent—not the child—manage it. There are peaks, valleys, and plateaus that are always changing and last for short, medium, and long times. Every student will experience this and parents need to support their students through it. That is what I say in the FIS.

During the Foundation Session(s), I tell them about the requirement to watch the videos, precisely as I say—not disregarding them or going ahead. I tell them about the playlist and the requirement to have it marked and brought to class weekly (and handed to me as they come in). I tell them I expect them to have their student practice most days of the week at the same time and that they need to be involved in the process—at their child’s side, not teaching them but starting the video, making sure they check their playlist, making sure they do each assignment.

I want to set up the expectations from the beginning. The rest is simple: come on time, always wash your hands before you touch the piano, sit next to your coach, make up lesson policy, etc.

I used to have something in writing but it was just logistics, not the value of the lessons or the nature of managing the long-term relationship. I find people don’t read things. It’s better for me to keep the conversation alive on a weekly basis.

Laurie Richards, Nebraska

I have a document I give out at the FIS. It includes the following, plus specific enrollment instructions (which is done online). I talk about these important points briefly and ask them to be sure they are comfortable with all of it before enrolling.

If you are ready to embark on a wonderful musical journey using the Simply Music piano method, please read carefully through this packet and follow the instructions. Feel free to contact me with any questions.

General Information

Please know that this program, and my studio, may not be the best fit for you if:

• You are “trying it out” to see if your child likes piano vs. being committed to a long-term experience with music education
• The student is involved in many extracurricular activities or your family is very busy, making daily practice and parental involvement difficult

“A World Where Everyone Plays”

This book is my gift to you. I hope you will read the inspiring stories in it about how Simply Music has affected the lives of students, parents, teachers, and the amazing founder and creator Neil Moore. (There is even a chapter written by yours truly.)

Important Information about what to expect

1. Group Classes
Classes consist of of 4 – 5 students along with their coaches. Here are just a few of the many benefits of this learning environment:

• Students learn by observing other students, resulting in a deeper level of learning
• Music is experienced naturally in a social environment rather than being an isolating endeavor
• Students become quite comfortable playing in front of others
• Camaraderie and support are built in for both students and parents
• Students learn from others’ ideas and questions

2. Life Coach
A parent or other life coach must accompany students age 15 or younger to every class. (Note: adult students are their own coaches!). Coaches are an essential part of the student’s success!

Coaches MUST:

• Be a consistent person in class each week (occasional substitutes are okay)
• Attend and participate in every lesson without distraction
• Be available to support the student at home regularly
• Ensure that the student is completing all assignments each week and help manage thisprocess

3. Materials
Your enrollment fee will cover the cost of the initial improvisation materials. Thereafter you will receive specific instructions regarding how to purchase your Simply Music materials online.

Typically a purchase is necessary every 3 – 4 months, depending on the pace of the class. The individual cost of the materials ranges from $8 – $45 depending on the program purchased and the format you choose (digital only or physical-digital combo). The materials include various combinations of books, audio and video files. You can expect to spend an average of around $100 per year on these materials.

4. First Month
The first four classes will consist of two components:

• Several foundational conversations which set the stage for long-term success
• Improvisation program, in which we establish some basics and begin naturally creating our own music using concepts taught in class.

In the second month we will begin Simply Music curriculum and learn songs from the curriculum in addition to the improvisation program. This will require the purchase of new materials.