What is unique about Silva Piano Studio?
Under my teaching, students learn that playing the piano is an art of creativity, interpretation, and communication. Therefore, it is important to teach my students how to express themselves through artistic performances of different styles of music. They also learn the fundamentals of music and apply them to their playing. As a music educator and performer, it is my hope for my students not only to have the skills to enjoy playing on their own but also to develop the confidence and interest in sharing their music with their peers and communities.
Do I need a piano before starting lessons?
Yes! Please see below "Instrument & Tuning" for piano recommendations.
What ages and levels do you teach?
I teach children as young as 4 years old, all the way to retired individuals, of all levels. For young students, to progress steadily, parents need to be involved in assisting in lessons and practicing at home.
Do you teach beginners?
Yes! Most of my students start studying with me with no previous instructions. The ones that begin at a young age usually stay with me until they go to college and the longest period I have had the opportunity to work with a student is 12 years.
Do you travel to students' homes?
No, I do not travel to students' homes. Most lessons are scheduled back-to-back Mondays through Thursdays and are held in person at the Silva Piano Studio or online.
How to pronounce your name?
Nga-man is pronounced as "ah-man".
What kind of piano do you recommend?
An acoustic piano, wholeheartedly!
If having an acoustic piano is not an option, a full-sized (88 keys) digital piano with fully weighted keys and a damper pedal would work. However, a very high-end digital piano still cannot produce the sound and provide the touch that an acoustic piano can.
Having a better instrument does help with the learning experience, in the end, it depends on your musical goals and needs.
How often should I tune my piano? Any piano technician recommendation?
Twice a year. Students must hear the proper pitches on the piano for the development of their oral skills. Thus, regular tuning is important. Like skipping oil change on our cars, skipping tuning is a bad idea. A well-maintained piano will start to hold its pitch better and better over time.
Mr. Dan F. Dannenfelser (916) 224-0122 is a great piano technician whom I have worked with in the past and I highly recommend him.
For finding certified piano technicians in other areas, please visit https://portal.ptg.org/4dcgi/directory/rpt/person.html
How much should I practice?
Every day, consistency is the key. Regardless of the time spent, quality over quantity.
It will take time to establish a good practice habit, but little by little, with consistency, it will become a part of your routine.
To get the most out of each practice session, setting small and achievable goals before hitting the piano bench is important.
What if I did not have a lot of time to practice, should I still come to the lesson?
Absolutely, there is still value in coming to lessons.
The weekly check-in at lessons allows us to examine where we are and what we can do going forward. Also, there are always materials to be reviewed, improved on, or learned at a piano lesson.