What age is best to start piano lessons? 

We recommend that students begin piano lessons no earlier than 3 years old. We accept any student age 3 and older. Adults of any age are also welcome. 

Do you teach adult students?

Absolutely! Some of our best students are late beginners, and we also teach many parents of our younger students. It is wonderful to see an entire family of all ages learning music. We love teaching family duets to interested family members including parents, children, and siblings.    

What takes place in an hour-long lesson? 

Lessons consist of warm-up exercises and scales for technique building, sight-reading exercises, ear training, piano repertoire pieces, and written workbook time for music theory. 

What piano repertoire is taught? 

Piano repertoire varies from student to student. Pieces are chosen based on each student's strengths, musical interests, and technical development. Examples of beginner classical repertoire can include Minuets by Bach and Mozart, Sonatinas by Clementi and Diabelli, 24 Little Pieces by Kabalevsky, and Alfred Library Recital Pieces. For intermediate and advanced students, repertoire can include classical pieces by Chopin, Debussy, Beethoven, and more, as well as pop and jazz chord charts depending on the students' musical preferences. 

Where are lessons taught? 

Lessons are taught in the comfort of your own home in the New York City area or online from anywhere in the world. We also now offer lessons in our new studio location at 291 Broadway between Reade and Duane.

What kind of piano do I need? Will a keyboard be sufficient? What about other instruments?

Any acoustic piano (upright or grand) is the best choice for lessons. However, it is sufficient to begin with a weighted electronic keyboard if investing in an acoustic piano is not yet an option for you.

I recommend investing in an acoustic piano for its many benefits of developing proper technique, connecting with the instrument, warm tone, dynamic range, and overall heightened musicality. I also believe experiencing acoustic piano playing is a refreshing break from our constant engagement with electronics.

Our favorite acoustic pianos are Steinway or Steinway-made Boston and Essex pianos. They often have sales with significant savings or pre-owned discounts, and they offer convenient financing offers. Book your appointment with Jennifer Chiaramonte at 212-332-0114 or jchiaramonte@steinway.com to visit the Steinway Showroom, 1133 Avenue of the Americas.

A comprehensive list of instruments we recommend can be found HERE, with links to purchase as well.

Is piano a good choice as a first instrument? 

Piano is an excellent choice as a first instrument. Because the notes are linear on a piano, it is the easiest instrument for understanding music theory; therefore, it provides the strongest foundation for musical understanding and makes it easier to learn other instruments in the future. 

How can I make the most of my weekly piano lessons? 

Make piano practice a part of your routine. Whether you are taking piano lessons as an adult or a child, we understand that our students are very busy with other activities. We teach with methods that will get you the most out of your lessons to make ample progress even with busy schedules, but there is no replacement for practicing throughout the week. Students are provided written practice lists at every lesson with detailed instructions on how to practice alone. Remember that a little bit of practice goes a very long way.  

As a parent, how can I make sure my child has the best possible lesson experience?

We encourage frequent communication between our office, our teachers, our director Lydia, our students, and our students' parents. Our office is always available via email at info@tribecamusicnyc.com, and our director Lydia is available by phone for all enrolled students. We often communicate with parents on repertoire choice, book selection, practice tips, instrument commendations and recital preparation. We also have a Parent Feedback form for any lesson requests or comments to improve your child’s experience.

How are lessons billed?

Monthly tuition is auto-billed on the first of each month. Your first month is a trial period. If you decide not to continue, we'll refund any untaught lessons.

What are your credentials?

We are accredited through Music Teachers National Association and New York State School Music Association. We are also Steinway and Sons music educators. All of our teachers have higher education degrees in music education, vast professional performance experience, and years of teaching experience of all ages.