I approach the first lesson by creating a comfortable and encouraging environment. I start by getting to know the student—their age, interests, and any previous musical exposure—so I can adapt my teaching style to their personality. Then I introduce the basic fundamentals: proper posture, hand position, finger numbers, and simple rhythm patterns. I also guide the student through their first notes on the piano, usually using a very simple exercise or melody so they can leave the first lesson feeling confident and excited. My goal is to build trust, spark curiosity, and set a strong foundation for progress from the very beginning.
During these lessons, we also introduce simple scales, chords, and patterns that help students play more independently. They start to recognize musical structure and make connections between theory and real music. Depending on their pace and interests, they may learn to play favorite songs, follow lead sheets, or start composing short melodies of their own.
Overall, the remaining lessons focus on turning early foundations into real musicianship—helping the student play confidently, understand what they are doing, and truly enjoy the journey of learning piano.
From the fourth to the tenth lesson, a beginner starts to feel real growth and confidence at the piano. We continue strengthening the fundamentals while introducing new skills step by step. Students will learn to read more notes on the staff, understand basic rhythms more clearly, and play slightly longer pieces that combine both hands. During this period, I also introduce simple music theory concepts—such as scales, basic chords, dynamics, and patterns—so students understand not only how to play, but why the music works.
Technique becomes a more natural part of the routine through short exercises that build finger strength and coordination. By the tenth lesson, most beginners can confidently play several short songs, keep a steady tempo, recognize notes on the staff, and use both hands together. The goal is to create a strong foundation, nurture musicality, and help the student feel proud of the progress they’re making each week.