SFA music prep offers new piano instruction program

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS -Piano pedagogy students in the Stephen F. Austin State University School of Music and SFA's Music Preparatory Division will partner to offer a new program for 6- to 12-year-olds wanting to learn to play the piano.

Students enrolled in the Piano Laboratory Program will receive weekly 30-minute private lessons and 30-minute group lessons, each taught by an SFA college student working towards a piano pedagogy certification. The program is under the leadership of Dr. Mario Ajero, SFA assistant professor of piano pedagogy.

During the group lessons, students will use Yamaha electronic digital pianos, complete with a MT-200 Midi sequencer and Keynote visualizer.

"We are excited about the possibilities this new program offers to all involved," said Pat Barnett, division director. "The piano students will receive quality instruction at a discounted tuition rate of $150 per semester, and the college students will gain valuable teaching experiences in private and group settings. "

If at all possible, students will have the same instructor for the fall and spring semesters.

The Music Preparatory Division will continue to offer piano lessons taught by music preparatory faculty members Mary Cooper, James Faucett, Dr. Ping-Ting Lin and Linda Parr and student teacher Hyera Kim.

For more information about any of the piano instruction offered through the Music Preparatory Division, visit www.music.sfasu.edu/prep or contact Barnett via e-mail at pbarnett@sfasu.edu or by calling (936) 468-1291. Questions concerning the Piano Laboratory Program can be directed to Ajero at ajeromp@sfasu.edu or (936) 468-1389.