Piano Division

Download the 2009-2010 Preparatory School Brochure

Our Piano Program, designed and directed by Professor Hanna Wu Li, combines outstanding private piano instruction with classes in Dalcroze eurhythmics, music theory, composition, improvisation and chamber music. A public, free recital is given at the end of each semester. Each year many students receive national recognition for excellence.

Private Piano Lessons
Students may choose a 30-, 45-, or 60-minute weekly private lesson. In addition to the weekly lesson, students are encouraged to take a music class in Dalcroze Eurhythmics, Musicianship or Theory, Composition, Improvisation, or Chamber Music for the more advanced student. These classes help to develop listening skills, rhythmic and tonal dictation, theoretical knowledge, and structural and compositional techniques. One music class may be taken each semester at no additional cost. All classes are taught on Saturdays on the Carnegie Mellon campus. Private lessons are taught on Saturdays on campus, although some teachers may teach throughout the week in their homes or on campus. An interview with Professor Hann W. Li is required for admittance into the Piano Program. Call the Music Preparatory Office to schedule and appointment 412.268.3667.

Beginning Piano Program for Children
Beginning Piano for Children is designed to provide beginning students (ages 5-7) with comprehensive instruction, a natural approach to the keyboard, fluency in reading and a precise attention to musical detail. Students have a 45-minute group lesson, a 30-minute private lesson and a 45-minute Dalcroze Eurhythmics class each week. The group class concentrates on note reading, counting, rhythm, fingering, hand position, ear training, sight reading, solo performance, and duet playing. The private lesson is devoted to individual coaching and development.

Beginning Piano for Children is a 4-5 consecutive semester commitment, depending upon the semester of entry. Class size is limited and an interview with Professor Hanna W. Li is required. Call the Music Preparatory Office to schedule an appointment 412.268.3667.

Admission
Admission is determined by an audition or interview. To schedule an audition or interview, call 412 268 3667.

Registration
After admission, students must register at the start of each semester. Students may register for classes or private lessons after a semester begins only with the teacher’s permission.

Tuition
Tuition is due in full by the first week of classes. A late fee of $25 will be assessed after the second week of class. We accept cash, check, or Master Card/Visa/American Expresss. See registration forms for lesson and class fees.

Extra Lessons
Extra lessons may be arranged between the teacher and student. Fees will be pro-rated based on current tuition, payable to the Preparatory School Office.

Discounts
• Siblings: When 3 or more siblings enroll for private lessons, a 5 percent discount is applied to the overall tuition.
• Multiple private lessons: When a student enrolls in both the strings and piano programs, a 15 percent discount is applied to the overall tuition.

Attendance
We expect students to attend all scheduled sessions. If a student misses a private lesson, the instructor is under no obligation to reschedule. The instructor will reschedule lessons missed due to instructor illness or professional engagements.

Location
We conduct most lessons and classes on the Carnegie Mellon University campus:
• Private lessons in the College of Fine Arts (CFA)
• Classes in CFA or Margaret Morrison Carnegie Hall (MM)

Recitals
Student recitals are an important part of our program. Because preparation for and performance in recitals help students develop as musicians, we present three free, public recitals each year.