Caroline Hamm Bargen

I love to teach piano to eager learners, ages 4 - 84! With younger students I incorporate singing and rhythm activities to supplement the colourful method books used. Theory--the written part of learning music--is incorporated into lessons at all levels as well. It's such a great reinforcement of all the music learning that's done at the piano, and will be a foundation for anyone wanting to improvise or play by ear. I like to follow the RCM level guidelines so that students may take practical and theory exams if they choose to. I feel comfortable teaching students up to a grade 8-9 level. Adults are encouraged to not put off fulfilling their dream of learning to play the piano, perhaps something they did not have an opportunity to do as a child, and always wanted to do. One of my dear elderly students told me she took piano lessons instead of playing Sudoku! I encourage my students to reach for excellence, whether it's playing a penta-scale, a Beethoven Sonatina or an arrangement of Star Wars! Participation in local music festivals are encouraged but not mandatory. Many of my students win awards at the local festivals, and occasionally at the Provincial festival. I hold recitals twice a year; opportunities for students to share and show off their musical accomplishments. I teach throughout the school year, and in the summer for energetic learners!