FAQ

General Info

Q. What is the difference between a piano and a keyboard (i.e. what are the differences between each instrument)?
A: piano is an acoustic instrument with weighted keys whereas a keyboard is an electric instrument (requiring a power source) with un-weighted (lighter) keys than a piano. Each instrument has its own unique benefits and features. For example, the weighted keys on the piano are good for building up finger strength, which enhances your playing technique; and when you play a note or notes on a piano, the enharmonics (where the neighboring piano strings vibrate in harmony with the notes/s you have just played) give a richness to the sound that is unique to the piano. But pianos need to be tuned regularly, which can be expensive. By contrast, keyboards never need to be tuned, and on a keyboard, you can change the sounds and instruments, which adds great variety to your practice (many keyboards have hundreds of sounds you can choose from). Also, on a keyboard you can play along with backing tracks. Playing the keyboard is also good for encouraging very precise playing. For example, clipping an occasional incorrect note while playing the piano is less noticeable than if you make the same mistake on a keyboard. Plus playing with backing tracks is very good for developing your ability to play precisely in time. And, of course, MIDI keyboards can be connected to a computer, which opens up a host of music-making opportunities.
Q: After I register online, does it mean my seat has been confirmed?
A: No. Your seat is not confirmed until you have received an email confirmation.
Q: What happens if the group class that I registered for is cancelled by the academy?
A: If a group class is cancelled, you will get an email notice and a check with the full amount will be refunded to you.
Q: Is there a charge for parents canceling or withdrawing a class registration?
A: An enrollment cannot be cancelled or withdrawn. As such, a refund will not be given.
Q: If I missed a private (one-on-one) class, how do I arrange a make-up class?
A: If you did not provide at least 48 hours advance notice (By email) there will be no make-up class and is not refundable since you paid for the reservation of the class. You may not subtract the absent class from your subsequent tuition.
Q: If I dropped out in the middle of a group class, how is the remaining refund portion calculated.
A: Group class registration cannot be cancelled. As such, no refund will be given.
Q: How do I enroll?
A: Please register online through our website. Alternatively, you can call during our office hours at 408-681-8988. We will contact you as soon as we can.
Q:My kid is almost 5 years old, should he register for the 4 to 5 year-old class or the 5 to 8 year-old class?
A: It will depend on the maturity of your child. You may drop a message online, we will contact you as soon as we can.