Piano Lessons in Jackson NJ

Music Teachers National Association Grant

  Tuesday, June 21, 2022 by Elena Papavero | Professional Development



Welcome to Pianorama!


MTNA (Music Teacher’s National Association) offers a Teacher Enrichment Grant which can be awarded for up to $750 for professional study, whether it be private study, college-level course work, or anything that contributes to the development and enhancement of teaching and/or performing skills.

I’m thrilled to have been awarded the grant for 2022-2023 and look forward to continued and intensive study with Professor Brian Gilmore!

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Why 45-Minute Lessons?

  Friday, May 20, 2022 by Elena Papavero | Lessons


Welcome to Pianorama!


I offer lessons at a minimum of 45 minutes, regardless of age. 


This allows for a well-rounded music education.


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Much can be accomplished during a typical 45-minute lesson plan.   


5 minutes: Warm-Up

  • Scales, arpeggios, chords played in different ways
  • Technique - developing finger strength and dexterity
  • Interactive learning (flash cards, games, etc.)


15 minutes: Review

  • Play the prepared lesson and set new goals for any part of the music that will be continued into the next week of practicing (usually 2-3 pieces)
  • Work on any issues to move the lesson forward
  • Play duet sections with the prepared pieces


20 minutes: New Material or Theory

  • Introduce new music and/or new section of current pieces
  • Have student listen to and read through new pieces
  • Analyze the written part of piece (theory) and music history about composer and style
  • Improvise or compose for fun and theory discovery


5 minutes: Wrap Up

  • Discuss progress and reward student
  • Detail goals for the coming week


For young students, 45 minutes allows time for off-the-bench activities. The lesson plan would look different, but would be very full. Repetitive games and physical activities are vital for keeping the lesson pace moving and giving the diverse experiences that match the sense of play and shorter attention spans of young learners. 


Note that a 45-minute lesson can go quickly and may not be sufficient for repertoire beyond the second year and recital program preparation. 


60-minute lessons bring a huge improvement. I strongly encourage longer lesson times, especially for fourth-level students or students who lack the time to practice and integrate the lesson material.


My teaching philosophy gives more lesson details.



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Sunday, September 25, 2022 by Elena Papavero | Benefits Piano Lessons