Frequently Asked Questions

How do I Sign-Up?

• Click here for enrollment forms
• Register by phone: 630.682.1334
• Register by mail: Mail your completed forms and payment to: 935 West Liberty Drive, Wheaton IL 60187

How is Yamaha different from piano lessons?

The Yamaha Music Education System is a rounded musicianship approach that prepares a child for success in any instrument. It is keyboard/piano centered and children learn to play fluently. Classes are taught in a group setting, using ear training, solfege, movement and rhythm, music appreciation and ensemble. Yamaha allows children to develop solid musical skills without early focus on a performance instrument.

What Makes Yamaha Unique?

Teachers:

Our teachers all have extensive music backgrounds and hold their degrees in piano performance . In addition, our teachers undergo rigorous screening, training and exams through the Yamaha Music Education System.

Click here to view teachers

Fun:

Teaching in a group setting with varied activities allows for more stimulating and innovative ways of teaching music to which children respond. We move, dance, stretch, march, sing, and of course, play keyboards– we’ve taken the “ho-hum” out of learning music. Children play and learn.

Curriculum:

Yamaha materials include books, CD’s, DVD’s, and other materials that combine decades of experience with the most recent research in music education.

History:

The Yamaha Music Education System was developed in Tokyo in 1954 and has introduced millions of children throughout the world to music. Its programs are continually tested and updated to provide the best early childhood music experience possible.

Why group classes?

Teaching children in a group environment fosters a team spirit, encourages friendship and provides motivation all within a supportive community. Music is best when shared. Children share the spotlight in class, reducing the pressure on each individual child. It also provides an opportunity to play as an ensemble.

Will my child learn to play the keyboard or the piano?

Yes! We use electronic keyboards and acoustic pianos in class.

Do we need to have a piano or keyboard at home?

A keyboard or piano is required at home for children 4 ½+ as a practice instrument. Electric keyboards must have full size keys and at least 4 octaves; acoustic pianos need to be regularly tuned.

What are the practice requirements?

We encourage children (4 ½+) and parents to review and practice what has been taught in class. Homework assignment sheets are given weekly, and detail specific activities. Practice is suggested 5-7 times per week. The typical time frame starts at 10 to 15 minutes for beginners and increases for advanced students.

How do I know if my child is ready for classes?

Yamaha’s curriculum is designed for young children and fits the unique needs and developmental stages of each age group. To better assess your child’s readiness, we encourage you to visit our school for a preview lesson or an open house, where our teachers can assess your child’s readiness.

How long are the classes?

We have a fall and spring semester which last approximately 20 weeks each. We also offer summer camps. Classes are between 45 -55 minutes. See courses page for specific class information.

What is the tuition?

Programs vary in tuition and materials. Please view our Policy Sheet.

How many children are in the class?

They are between 6-11 students in each class.

What is my role as the parent? Do I need a musical background?

Parents attend each class with their child as an active partner and guide children in their daily practice at home. It is not necessary for parents to have a musical background. Parents learn with their children.

MOST IMPORTANTLY, PARENTS PROVIDE THE SUPPORT AND COMMITMENT THAT IS ESSENTIAL TO SUCCESS IN MUSIC.

What Courses are Offered?

We offer classes in 3 age categories. Each class builds on what was learned the previous semester. We offer fall and spring semesters which last approximately 20 weeks each. See courses page for class details.

3 ½ - 4 ½ years:

• Music Wonderland – 2 semesters

4 ½ - 6 ½ years beginners:

• Musicland: Is the first 3 lessons of Primary I. We offer it as a sample class for you to experience our program before signing up for the semester class. It is a prerequisite to Primary I.
• Primary I through IV: 4 semesters in length
• JXC 1 through 4: 4 semesters in length

6 ½ - 8 years beginners

• Young Musicians Class I through 6: 6 semesters in length

Who teaches my child?

The Wheaton Yamaha Music School provides students with excellent teachers who truly care about their students.

Our teachers are highly skilled musicians who are enthusiastic and eager to work with children and their parents.

Prospective teachers must hold a college music degree and be sponsored by an authorized Yamaha music school. Applicants must pass the Yamaha Music Education System’s rigorous musical exam before they attend a training seminar. Initial teacher training lasts for the next two years and includes seminars both regional and national.

Yamaha maintains two research and development centers in the United States. These centers develop new courses and carefully monitor students’ progress so enhancements can be made to existing courses. Teachers attend seminars that introduce new and revised courses and participate in workshops on a variety of subjects.

Your teacher is crucial to your child’s music education. Together, the parent, child and teacher form a partnership.