Getting Started with Private Lessons

  • A great first step for parents is to visit the Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) website and explore their Guide to Your Child’s Musical Future. It offers a clear, comprehensive overview of what to expect and how to support your child’s musical journey from the get-go and as they grow.

  • Birch & Bay offers three flexible lesson formats for families to choose from.

    • Newport Studio
    Piano teacher and studio owner Emily Jones teaches pre-reading through intermediate students ages 4+.

    • In-Home
    For families who need the convenience of learning at home, Birch & Bay offers in-home piano instruction with carefully selected traveling teachers who bring lessons directly to your family. We provide the scheduling, billing, and curriculum guidance behind the scenes.

    • Online
    Virtual lessons are available for students and families both locally and outside the Orange County area.

    Ready to get started? Click here to get in touch. We’re looking forward to connecting with you!

  • Private music lessons are a meaningful, long-term investment in your child’s growth, discipline, and creativity. To better understand the value and typical cost, you may find this article helpful: How Much Do Piano Lessons Cost—and Why They’re Worth It.

    Click here for a brief billing overview

  • Piano Adventures is a piano lesson method and curriculum designed to guide students from pre-reading beginners through the later intermediate levels.

    Students learn through the ACE approach: Analyze, Create, and Express.

    Analyze: Students develop music theory skills, recognize patterns, and build rhythmic understanding.
    Create: Students explore improvisation and creativity at the piano.
    Express: Students develop artistry, technique, and musical expression.

    Piano Adventures also emphasizes the important partnership between lessons, home practice, and family support, helping students build strong musical foundations and independent musicianship over time.

  • Below are both OC-local and online options to help you get started in the search for an instrument:

    • New acoustic pianos: Kim’s Piano in Tustin or Field of Pianos in Santa Ana

    • Used acoustic pianos: Contact Emily directly for trusted referrals

    • Digital pianos: Visit International House of Music (formerly Jim’s Music) in Tustin

    • Budget-friendly rentals: pianorentals.com

  • Yes! Students have several opportunities to perform and celebrate their progress throughout the year:

    • Studio recitals are held annually at local Newport Beach churches.

    • Community performance recitals are also available through CAPMT, where students can share their music at local assisted living facilities.

    • Piano Adventures exams (including a performance element) are available for piano students. These are designed to be low-pressure and engaging, helping students reflect on what they’ve learned and celebrate their growth.

  • Absolutely! Reach out with what you’re looking for and we’ll be in touch.

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