Piano Lessons
Begin your musical journey at Long & McQuade with private and online Piano lessons for students of all ages and skill levels. Whether you are picking up the instrument for the first time or you already have experience and want to continue to hone your skills, our expert teachers will help you reach your goals in a professional, encouraging environment.
Register NowWhy Choose Long & McQuade for Piano Lessons?
Train with experienced Piano instructors who work with both beginners and advanced players, in lesson studios equipped with professional equipment for a comfortable learning experience. Enjoy flexible scheduling with daytime, evening, and weekend options that accommodate your schedule. As a trusted name in music education across Canada, Long & McQuade offers a reliable path to achieving your goals.
What Piano Topics Will I Learn?
Piano is a skill that grows with you over a lifetime. The topics show what many students begin with, but your path can take many directions. Whether your goal is to join a school band, play for fun, or pursue a professional career, Piano lessons provide the foundation to progress to the next stage.
Beginner & Intermediate Topics
- Reading music notation and rhythm
- Proper posture and hand position
- Playing with both hands together
- Scales, chords, and simple harmony
- Using the pedal for expression
- Learning beginner pieces in classical, pop, and jazz
- Sight reading and basic ear training
- Building confidence in performing short pieces
Advanced & Professional Topics
- Mastering advanced repertoire (Chopin, Beethoven, Debussy)
- Advanced technique through etudes, scales, and arpeggios
- Refining tone, phrasing, and dynamics for interpretation
- Complex chord progressions and accompaniment patterns
- Improvisation and composition across genres
- Preparing for competitions, exams, or professional performance
Any Age | Any Stage | Any Style
Piano Lessons for Kids
Ages 5-12
What to Expect for Kids Learning Piano
- Age-appropriate lessons with playful activities
- Positive reinforcement to build confidence and coordination
- Focus on rhythm, note reading, listening skills and movement
- Option to prepare for RCM exams or learn for fun
Learning Outcomes
- Ability to read music and identify notes
- Develop a regular practice routine
- Improve focus, patience, and discipline
- Build stage presence with optional recitals
Piano Lessons for Teens
Ages 13–18
What to Expect for Teens Learning Piano
- Personalized song selections-classical, pop, jazz, or contemporary
- RCM exam prep and music theory available
- Support for school music programs and auditions
Learning Outcomes
- Develop creative independence and musical identity
- Build self-confidence and discipline
- Reduce stress and anxiety through music
- Gain a lifelong skill that supports personal and academic growth
Piano Lessons for Adults
Ages 19+
What to Expect for Adults Learning Piano
- Flexible scheduling options in evenings, weekends, and daytime
- Learn the music you enjoy from rock, pop, funk, classical & more
- No exams required (unless you want them)
- Lessons focused on personal enjoyment, growth, or relaxation
Learning Outcomes
- Relieve stress and boost mental wellness through music
- Improve coordination, memory, and creativity
- Build a fulfilling hobby that fits your lifestyle and pace
- No pressure, just personal progress and enjoyment
"I've always wanted to learn, but I don't have a Keyboard."
This is one of the most common concerns we hear, and the good news is you don't need to own a Keyboard to start learning.
At Long & McQuade, we make it easy for beginners to get started without the pressure of buying an instrument right away. We offer affordable Keyboard rentals and can help you choose the right model to suit your needs. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Understanding the Different Types of Piano
If you're about to get your own instrument, here's a breakdown of the main types of pianos and keyboards to help you make the right choice.
Upright Pianos
Upright pianos are traditional acoustic pianos with a rich, resonant tone. They require more space and regular tuning, but they offer a more organic playing experience.
Upright pianos are typically for Intermediate to advanced students who want a classic touch and feel.
Grand Pianos
Grand pianos are concert-style pianos known for their superior sound quality. While they require ample space and investment, they are ideal for high-level players or performance spaces.
Grand Pianos are ideal for advanced students, performers, and those looking for the highest quality tone and touch.
Digital Pianos/Keyboards
Digital pianos are a popular choice for students of all levels. They replicate the feel and sound of an acoustic piano while offering features like volume control, headphone jacks, and built-in rhythms or metronomes.
Digital pianos are grand for intermediate to advanced students who want a classic touch and feel.
"How do I Pick the Right Piano Teacher?"
Choosing the right Piano teacher is one of the most critical steps in your musical journey. At Long & McQuade, we understand that the best instructor is not only highly skilled but also the right fit for your goals, personality, and learning style.
Whether you're looking for an encouraging teacher for your child, a teen interested in pop, classical, or musical theatre, or an adult learner seeking a no-pressure space, Long & McQuade will help you find the perfect teacher for your Piano lessons.
Choosing the Right Program at Long & McQuade
Private Piano Lessons
Private piano lessons at Long & McQuade are one-on-one with weekly 30- or 60-minute sessions. Your instructor creates a personalized learning plan tailored to your goals, whether they involve reading, technique, or exam preparation. Flexible scheduling makes it easy to fit practice into busy weeks. Private lessons are suitable starting at age 8.
Group Piano Lessons
Group piano lessons place 4–8 students (ages 5–9) in a fun, structured class. Students learn keyboard skills through games, songs, and short activities that keep their attention high while building rhythm, note-reading, and coordination. The class builds upon an early music foundation, providing social motivation and positive peer energy.
Online Piano Lessons
Online piano lessons at Long & McQuade are one-on-one with weekly 30-, 45- or 60-minute sessions. Your instructor creates a personalized learning plan tailored to your skills and goals. Flexible scheduling makes it easy to fit practice into busy weeks. Online lessons are suitable starting at age 8.
"Should I take any Exams or Tests?"
It really depends on your goals and how you learn best.
Exams are always optional for Piano students. For those who want structured milestones and formal recognition of their progress, music exams can be a valuable choice. In Canada, there are a few main exam boards that Piano students may participate in.
Most Popular Exam Options in Canada
Exams can help students stay motivated, track progress, and gain a sense of achievement. They also provide valuable credentials that can be used for school credit or future opportunities in music.
Not every student needs to pursue exams; some prefer to play for fun or focus on performing. But for those who enjoy having goals, exams are an excellent way to celebrate progress and build confidence.
Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM)
The RCM piano program guides students through a well-organized series of levels, starting with the Preparatory stages and moving up through Levels 1 to 10, followed by Associate and Licentiate diplomas. Each stage builds skills in technique, sight-reading, ear training, and musicianship while introducing age-appropriate repertoire. Exams are designed to mark clear milestones, providing students with certificates that track their progress from beginner to advanced performance.
ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music)
The ABRSM piano program utilizes an internationally recognized grade system, beginning with Initial Grade and progressing through Grades 1 to 8, with options to continue into diploma-level study. Each grade develops a balance of technical exercises, repertoire, sight-reading, and aural skills. The structured approach helps students see clear goals at every stage, and successful exams are rewarded with certificates that are valued worldwide.
Trinity College London
Trinity piano exams give students a flexible way to grow. Starting at Initial Grade and moving through Grade 8, students choose from a wide range of music, including classical, jazz, and modern styles. This makes the program a good fit for kids who want more choice in what they play. Higher levels also offer diplomas for serious study, and every certificate is internationally respected.
"How can I be successful in my Piano Lessons?"
It's all about being consistent with practice.
The students who grow the most on their musical journey are the ones who practice regularly. Practicing for even just a few minutes a day can make a big difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
