FAQ
Where are you located?
Saanichton Piano located in Central Saanich on Vancouver island (behind the Polo Park neighbourhood and the Police Station).
What kind of lessons do you offer? And what age/level of student do you accept?
Saanichton Piano is proud to offer one-on-one piano lessons with theory and ear training integrated into the lessons. Joanne's vision is for all her students have fun and enjoy music. Royal Conservatory of Music exam preparation is available for anyone as well. Almost all her current students are school aged children with various musical skills. Lessons for adults are also available. Contact Saanichton Piano for more information.
When do you offer lessons?
Lessons are offered annually September to June and follow the public school academic breaks. We will arrange a time together for your lesson if you decide to study with Joanne.
Do you offer performance opportunities?
At the end of every semester, students and families have the option of gathering for a recital to showcase their pieces. The recital will be then followed by a reception with snacks and usually a bonus performance from our team!
Additionally, Joanne created the “Piano Olympics” which enables students to perform for other musicians and receive feedback. Students will earn a trophy, a certificate, and other prizes as well. It is offered as a similar experience to a piano masterclass yet delivered in a way that young students are comfortable and feel supported in their piano playing.
How are you offering online lessons?
All online lessons are offered via Zoom to ensure maximum video quality. If necessary, we can switch to Skype or Facetime as well. Joanne modified her studio to accommodate a camera point and a monitor on the piano as well as she invested ultra-wide band internet to enhance the setup and connection. Students will need to have an electronic device with Zoom capability (a tablet is strongly recommended) in front of the piano. Contact Saanichton Piano for a tutorial about setting up your technology.
Update August 2021: Joanne will be offering in-person lessons from September with precautions in place. Visit our Covid-19 Response page for more info!
Online lesson Troubleshooting
Find quick solutions for your online lessons!
I’m new to online lessons. What do I need in order to take online lessons?
You will need any smart electronic device setup around your piano. A tablet with a tripod or similar device holder is strongly recommended. Place the camera on the side of the keyboard above keyboard level, slightly tilted down for us to see your hands. Download Zoom and we will let know the rest!
I entered the online studio, however there’s no sound or image. What should I do?
Follow these steps below:
No sound:
1. Tap screen, see if there is a button named “Join Audio”. If not, jump to step 4.
2. If so, click on it.
3. Then tap “join internet audio” in the pop-up screen.
4. If there is no option of “join audio”, then make sure your device system audio is on (ie: not muted!)
No image:
1.Tap the screen, then tap “Gallery view”. This option should appear in a cornet of the screen. If you’re using a phone, swipe the screen until you can see several camera angle at once.
2. Double tap on the window when you sees the studio!
What if I cannot get in the meeting room?
Oops! Usually that’s because our waiting room feature is on for some reason. Please wait for a few minutes, if you still haven’t been let in at your lesson time, give me a call ASAP.