What is a private lesson?

A private lesson is a one on one music lesson involving the student and the teacher. I can customize not only what kind of music we study, or how you or your child may learn during the lesson, but I can also customize the length of the lesson to your specific needs/ level. You can even customize what instrument or combination of instruments you can learn in your lesson. A typical lesson meets once weekly on a fixed schedule that works well for all those involved, and I am happy to provide all instruments needed for your lesson, including any accessories, during your lesson time in the studio. All music is also provided for the lesson and to go home, and weekly goals and assignments are given at the end of each class.

What instruments or classes do you teach?

PIANO, KEYBOARD, SINGING, ACTING, VIOLIN, VIOLA, CELLO, DOUBLE BASS, UKULELE, GUITAR, BASS, ELECTRIC GUITAR, ACOUSTIC GUITAR, ELECTRIC BASS GUITAR, DRUMS, RECORDING, COMPOSING, SONG WRITING, MUSIC THEORY, SONG WRITING, MUSICAL THEATER

What method do you teach?

Petrova Jones Music is a CUSTOM MUSIC EDUCATION tm company.  The mission of PJM is to teach the style of music your child or  you enjoy, in the way in which he or she learns best. For example, kinesthetic and visual learners may work best doing both note reading and ear training. We work on teaching you how to play the songs that you are most inspired by and most want to learn.  I even customize songs to your level, writing arrangements that suit you or your child's level perfectly.  I find students learn to read music and music theory much more successfully when they have choice in their song, and are motivated and excited by their choice of piece.  All students work side by side with the me, their instructor, to choose, as a team, pieces and genres that will not only help them improve but also will motivate and encourage their progress. As an educator, one thing I know for sure is no two students process the same, so why should every child be taught from a method book that is a one size fits all plan? I pull from many techniques and methods, from classical or jazz or pop training, Suzuki methods, and other practices I have used myself and customize each lesson to the individual.  I find that that is one of the biggest way that PJM is different, and the best on the Treasure Coast.  Oh, and ALL your sheet music is provided in your lesson fee each week too!

Who is the teacher? 

Rest assured, I know that meeting new people can be scary and intimidating, but having been a teacher for 21 years, I luckily have a few tricks up my sleeve to ease the nerves and bring out the smiles. And yes. I am the owner and the teacher. I will hopefully be your child’s teacher or maybe even your very own teacher. I look forward to meeting you!

Above all, I hope it will be clear by now, that my heart is dedicated and passionate about what I am lucky enough to do each day: my kids. I work with kids each and every day - I am far from a rock star, but I feel that is what actually makes me a better teacher.

I chose to be a teacher, first and foremost, and kids are my heart’s business!  See more in ‘Petrova’s Bio’ or the 'Meet Petrova’ tab for more information on PETROVA JONES.

What happens at your typical first lesson and how much is it?

A positive first experience with an instrument is so important to any child or adult.  In this first music lesson, which I can begin as young as 3 years old, the student's comfort is of my utmost concern. Whether a child or an adult, I want our students to feel successful. I will familiarize the student with the instrument, demonstrate how to play it, and begin to help the student play right away.  In this way, students are excited to see the true potential of the instrument chosen! During this 30 minute private lesson, students are introduced to the basics of music theory, and begin day one to learn how to READ music. Most students will have choice in picking from many options for a first song! I will expertly guide students of all ages in how to play and by the end of the first lesson, most students will have between 2-4 new songs to practice for their family.

Going forward, students will attend a regular weekly music lesson with me, and at that time will show what they have mastered in practice, any songs they are having problems on will be worked on, and new concepts and music will be introduced. Lessons are offered in our main Port Saint Lucie music studio, located on Gettysburg Drive. Once a year, students will be able to play in an annual music recital to show off their talents! (Participation is not mandatory)

I also have a special performing group of more advanced students who give their time and talents by performing in local nursing homes and hospitals!  

Lesson fees are the same regardless of instrument type or if you are choosing vocal coaching.  Lesson fees vary, depending on length of lesson, which will vary based on age, concentration, readiness etc.

Please call our main line at 772-878-1680 or my cell at 561-379-2887 for specific  pricing.  In addition, all music sheets  are provided complimentary to students, as part of their weekly lesson fee.  Performing opportunities are included additionally.   That is my gift to you for investing in your child's musical future.

Do music students need their own instrument?

While having your own certainly helps, no, it is not necessary.

I am happy to work with you on finding the right instrument choice too!  Sometimes parents rush to buy an instrument and within weeks the student may have changed their mind on what they actually want to study.  To alleviate this stress you may use my instruments of course during your lesson time.  I have a full Yamaha 88 key acoustic concert grade upright pianos,  an 88 key fully weighted digital electric pianos, a full sized cello, every size of violin, a viola, a soprano ukulele, several acoustic student guitars, my acoustic electric guitar and my electric bass and electric 6 string. Additionally, I have a teaching recording studio with compressor mikes, and all of the equipment for my singers to enjoy in their voice lessons. Of course, if you have your own guitar, or stringed instrument, like a violin, please bring it to your lesson for tuning as it is always best to play on your own instrument as you learn technique.    I also do not feel that students must have a piano at home right away.  Sure, a piano is better, but be sure your child is going to stick with learning it first.    To start, a keyboard is sufficient, although we recommend a fully weighted one with at least 61 keys and a pedal and X back stand.

Do you sell instruments?

I used to sell instruments and accessories, but have chosen to just focus on only instruction for now.

Are your recitals mandatory?  My child is very shy.

I NEVER force any student to perform in any show.  It is a choice they must make on their own, or with your input.  While I encourage everyone to try to perform in a recital some children are very shy and not interested in performance.  Please know that this is not a problem for me. I want every child to be happy learning their instrument, and when/if they are ready to perform then they can let me know, and participate.  Please note that I offer two free tickets to every recital for my families students.  It is a small way to say thank you to you! If you need additional tickets for more family members, I will have tickets for purchase available.

How much practice should my child put in each day?

Practice is not supposed to be tremendous fun for most children, as it is work. Just like school work, practice requires concentration, and discipline.  Playing music and performing is the fun part but practicing is the necessary work required to get to that point.  Don't let it become an argument, or something that is dreaded.  Try to let your child choose a regular daily practice time, and receive a small reward at the completion of it.  Practice time length is recommended based on doubling their age. So, if your child is 5, a 10 minute daily practice time is ideal because much more than that in one sitting will cause them to become distracted and zone out.  I would prefer to see practice occur 4-5 days a week, with a day of two off for the child to have a break rather than a forced daily struggle.  Some children will practice readily, and some will not.  Remember each child is unique!  

As students improve, practice requirements may be increased and of course, new exercises will be added into daily work.  Practicing is not something most children choose to do. Especially not when electronics are readily available for play.   It is work, and so you as a parent, must realize that it can be a struggle.  Instead of allowing it to be one, put a piggy bank near their practicing spot, and when you catch your child practicing well on their own, without nagging, reward them with a quarter, etc.  Soon they will learn that hard work pays off and they will have a little money to buy a toy or something they want, and they will know all the while that practicing paid off.  Additionally, call your family together at practice time, and allow your child to put on a show for everyone, performing their songs!  Encourage them, applaud them-ultimately, instill a joy and love of music!