Ann Basten

Lessons Offered

Where are Lessons Offered

About Me

Lesson Format Lessons alternate between private and group. The private lessons are one on one with the teacher, focus on solo repertoire, and vary in length, either 30, 45, or 60 minutes. The group lessons will have no more than five students at a time, focus on theory, ear training, technique and ensemble playing and are 45 minutes long. Students will be placed in groups with others of comparable age and theory level. The year is divided into three semesters: Fall (Sept.-Dec.), Spring (Jan.-Apr.), and Summer (May-Aug.). Students will receive one week off each semester, as determined by the teacher. Each semester will include either 16 lessons (private and group combined) or 15 lessons and 1 recital. Students are expected to take lessons year round. There may, on occasion, be summer camps to break up the summer semester. Performance Opportunities Performances, such as recitals, help in developing self-esteem, discipline, poise, posture and mind control. Every student who has ever performed grows to be a self-confident, secure person who is not afraid to take on a challenge. ?Recitals Recitals are held twice a year. The Winter Recital is a formal recital where students perform two pieces. Memorization is strongly encouraged because it demonstrates a true knowledge and understanding of the pieces being performed. Since it is a formal recital, girls should be in dresses or skirts, at least knee length, with appropriate shoes for pedaling, and boys should be in dress pants, dress shoes, and a nice shirt. Parents are strongly encouraged to dress appropriately and to make this a special day of celebration for the child. The Spring Recital is traditionally the Family Ensemble Recital and Potluck where each student will perform one ensemble piece with one or more members of their family. Memorization is not required for ensemble performances. Studio and Festival Awards are handed out at this recital and students and their families share a potluck dinner afterwards. ?Festivals/Auditions Students are encouraged to take part in annual festivals/auditions. It provides them with the opportunity to perform for another piano teacher and receive written constructive feedback on their musical growth. The auditions also develop the students? musicianship skills by taking a written theory test. The two organizations I am involved in are WMTA (Wisconsin Music Teachers Association) and the National Federation of Junior Music Clubs. Both auditions are in early spring, either Feb. or March, and Badger State for WMTA happens in May. Both events require a registration fee. Proficiency placement ?exams? will also be held in spring. This event only involves the Basten Studio of Music and is a way for parents, students, and the teacher to evaluate the progress made throughout the year. The proficiency exams will include the areas of theory, technique, ear training, sight-reading, and performance. Responsibilities of? The Teacher ?Develop superior reading skills ?Develop proper piano technique ?Build a strong foundation of rhythm ?Build an understanding of theory ?Develop enthusiasm, respect, and love for music ?Respect differences in musical taste and personality ?Provide a comfortable studio atmosphere where students recognize both the seriousness and fun of piano study ?Encourage laughter and discovery ?Develop and work with students to achieve individual goals ?Improve my teaching skills through research, study, observation, membership in professional organizations, and workshop participation

My Musical Education Background

Nationally Certified Teacher of Music Music Teachers National Association Certified 2/03 University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Master of Music-Collaborative Piano Completed 12/01 Boston University Master of Music-Collaborative Piano 1 semes

Genres and Subjects Taught

Classical, Other

My Certifications and Awards

Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) Member since 1997 Wisconsin Music Teachers Association (WMTA) Member since 1997 Greater Milwaukee Chapter-Music Teachers Association Member since 1997

Service Area

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