In order to understand the instrument, you need to understand the music theory that goes along with the instrument. Without an understanding of music theory, you cannot possibly begin to understand how the play the actual instrument.

Each piano lesson will include both piano instruction as well as supplemental music theory instruction. Here is the breakdown for a typical lesson:

30 Minute Lesson - Young Beginners
Music Theory Instruction - 10 Minutes
Piano Instruction - 20 Minutes

45 Minute Lesson - Beginning Students
Music Theory Instruction - 15-20 Minutes
Piano Instruction - 25-30 Minutes

45 Minute Lesson - Intermediate Students
Music Theory Instruction - 10-15 Minutes
Scales - 5-10 Minutes
Prepared Piece / Method Instruction - 20-25 Minutes

60 Minute Lesson - Intermediate-Advanced Students
Music Theory Instruction - 10-15 Minutes
Scales / Method Instruction - 15-20 Minutes
Prepared Piece - 25-30 Minutes

How much practice time is required?
Piano students must practice for several reasons:

• Practice helps the student to progress into a better pianist.
• Practice is a time to prepare for the upcoming piano lesson.
• Well-practiced students get the maximum benefit out of their piano lessons.

Beginning students should practice twenty to thirty minutes, five times per week, in addition to their lesson.

Intermediate students should practice thirty to forty-five minutes, five times per week, in addition to their lesson.

Advanced students should practice at least one hour, five times per week, in addition to their lesson.

What are the costs associated with piano lessons?
There are several costs associated with taking piano lessons: lesson costs, method book costs and prepared piece costs.

Lesson costs are based on the duration of the lesson.
30 Minute Lessons: $72.00 per month**
45 Minute Lessons: $88.00 per month**
60 Minute Lessons: $112.00 per month**
**A “month” consists of four lessons.

Method books and prepared pieces will either be purchased from a retailer or directly from the teacher. Prices will vary for the sheet music and method books, but generally become more expensive as you become more advanced.

Where does Mr. Roberts teach piano lessons?
All piano lessons are taught privately at Mr. Roberts’ house, which is located in the Courthouse area of Gloucester, VA. Parents are strongly encouraged to attend lessons. However, parents should be present only to observe the lesson. Time will be provided at the beginning and conclusion of the lesson for questions from parents.

I have more questions. How can I contact Mr. Roberts?
The best way to contact Mr. Roberts is by email at bsgrw@yahoo.com. You can also contact Mr. Roberts by phone at (757) 528-2033.

How do I go about setting up lessons with Mr. Roberts?
Please download the brochure (above), complete the information form included with the brochure and email it to Mr. Roberts. If you cannot scan the form to be emailed, please send an email with the information included on the form to Mr. Roberts.

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Why is being tutored in music theory necessary?
Young musicians often just learn how to play (or sing) a musical instrument without ever learning music theory. As they grow in their instrument, they may be able to play (or sing) that instrument but do not understand what they are playing (or singing) or why they are playing (or singing) it. This makes the value in learning an instrument far less, which in many cases results in a student not continuing the investment they make in their instrument. This is especially true for students who participate in vocal ensembles (choir, chorus, jazz choir, etc...).

By learning the theory behind the music they are playing (or singing), instrumental, and vocal students alike, learn the value of what they are doing, which helps them to become more proficient and successful in their musical and financial investment. In other words, it may result in more success down the road, which can make a better return on one's investment in a student's music education.

What are the costs associated with piano lessons?
There are several costs associated with taking piano lessons: lesson costs, text costs, etc...

Lesson costs are based on the duration of the lesson.
30 Minute Lessons: $72.00 per month**
45 Minute Lessons: $88.00 per month**
60 Minute Lessons: $112.00 per month**
**A “month” consists of four lessons.

Text costs may be incurred when Mr. Roberts provides the appropriate instructional aids during the lesson. These costs vary and are dependent on which instructional aids are used during the lesson. Mr. Roberts will initially assess the student to determine which instructional aids are appropriate for the student. It is at that time that he will provide you with further information on text costs.

Where does Mr. Roberts tutor students in music theory?
Tutoring lessons may be taught at Mr. Roberts house, which is located in Gloucester, VA, or at a mutually agreed location which has a wireless internet availability. If you would like to be tutored away from Mr. Roberts home, please contact him for more information.

I have more questions. How can I contact Mr. Roberts?
The best way to contact Mr. Roberts is by email at bsgrw@yahoo.com. You can also contact Mr. Roberts by phone at (757) 528-2033.

How do I go about setting up lessons with Mr. Roberts?
Please email the following information to Mr. Roberts: First and last name, email address, phone number, any musical instruments you play (and/or musical experience) and how long you have been playing those instruments (or the length of other musical experience).

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At Saunders, he teaches grades kindergarten through five and is the director for the Saunders Elementary School Theatre Company and music director for the Saunders Elementary School Chorus Program. At St. Terese, he is the professional pianist for two masses each weekend.

Mr. Roberts holds a Bachelor of Music Education (B.M.E.) from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia where he studied violin with Amadi Hummings and Leslie Stewart, viola with Jennifer Snyder and piano with Marilyn Forman.  Past performances include ensembles such as the Old Dominion University Symphony Orchestra, the Old Dominion University Percussion Ensemble, and the Bay Youth Orchestra of Virginia. 

Mr. Roberts has been playing piano for nineteen years. He held positions such as Music Minister for several Catholic Youth Groups in Virginia Beach, VA, Music Minister at Bethel Foursquare Church in Virginia Beach, VA and currently Pianist at the Catholic Church of St. Terese in Gloucester, VA.

Mr. Roberts loves his career and works to be a positive influence for all of his students and colleagues.

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