Play Like a Pro! Piano Class for Middle and High Schoolers (Introductory Class)

Completed by 4 learners

Ages 12-17

Live One-Time Class

In this class students will begin to learn how to build chords to use in many pop, blues, and rock songs.

Shani Castle of Castle Music Studio

Average rating:

5.0

Number of reviews:

(61 reviews)

Live video meetings

Meets once

3-8 learners per class

25 min

About Learning Overview Teacher Reviews

What's included

1 live meeting

25 mins in-class hours

Homework

1 hour per week. Some time may be needed outside of class to review concepts following the class.

Class Experience

Have you ever wondered how pianists play with such skill, and sound so great playing various songs?  These pianists have a great understanding of playing using scales and chords on the piano!  In this one-time class, students will learn some basic chords and chord progressions to use in a variety of pop, blues, and rock songs.  

I will begin by giving a brief introduction to the notes on the piano.  We will then practice those notes, and discuss how to form those notes to make chords.  I will introduce 3 chords in this class, and we will practice using them to play different songs.  Using the software that I have, I will display everything on screen, so students will be able to play, and be heard playing in order to have an interactive session and get feedback on their playing.  

This class is for beginners, and is the introductory class.  Learners can use a piano, digital keyboard, or piano app to help with learning. No previous experience is necessary!

Learning Goals

1. Introducing the Musical Alphabet
2. Learn a song using the notes learned
3. Introduction of Chords
4. Learn the C, G, D Major Chords
5. Play songs using those chords

Other Details

Supply List

A piano or small keyboard with at least 4 octaves (48 keys) is needed.

External Resources

Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.

Meet the teacher

Shani Castle of Castle Music Studio

Joined November, 2021

5.0

61reviews

Profile

Teacher expertise and credentials

Florida Teaching Certificate in Music/Theater/Arts

I am an educator at heart! I hold a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music.  I've played piano and have sung professionally in various settings: churches, jazz bands, and more.  I have over 20 years in teaching music in schools and in my private studio.  I've taught general music classes, music appreciation, music theory, choirs, group piano, private singing, and piano lessons.  I've been a Fine Arts Director at a K-12 school for the last 5 years in Florida, as well as teaching in my studio online, and after school. 

Why take my classes?

My classes are relaxed, engaging, and fun! Lessons include learning a variety of different styles of music.  Classical, jazz, pop music are just some of the styles that I introduce. 

Most classes will focus on:

• How to read music
• How to sing and play a variety of songs
• How to move and play different rhythmic patterns 
• How to improvise 
• How to perform for others
• How to play with skill and technique

I am a wife of a husband who's a musician, and a homeschool mom of three, with all of my children learning to play the piano, singing, and playing drums.  They were born into it!  I strongly believe in creating an environment that supports and promotes an overall love of learning.  Fostering a space that invites students to create, play, and learn to love the gift of music is my goal.  I recognize the infinite potential that each student has, and believe that learning music can open many doors in the world around us.

I hope to meet you soon!