I offer lessons for students ages 7 and up, from beginner to advanced levels.

Lessons are tailored to each student's needs, goals, and level.

I offer private lessons in my professional studio in Newmarket, near Upper Canada Mall, or online. I do not currently offer in-home lessons.

Yes. Online lessons are offered through Zoom.

My setup includes multiple camera angles, including overhead and side views, so students can clearly see technique, hand position, and other musical details. Online lessons provide the same personalized approach as in-person lessons, with the added flexibility of learning online from home.

No. Beginners are welcome, as well as intermediate and advanced students. Lessons are tailored to each student's level and progress.

Piano study includes technique, repertoire, sight-reading, ear training, and music theory.

Depending on the student's goals and interests, lessons may also include improvisation and composition.

I use a structured, step-by-step approach tailored to each student’s level, learning needs, and goals.

Lessons combine established teaching methods with individualized instruction and may include repertoire, technique, sight-reading, ear training, music theory, improvisation, and composition. The pace and balance of these elements are adjusted as the student develops.

Goals are tailored to each student's level, interests, and aspirations. They may include developing technique, learning repertoire, preparing for performances, RCM examinations, competitions, or auditions, as well as developing musicianship and composition skills.

Yes. Music theory, sight-reading, and ear training are integrated into piano study as part of a well-rounded musical education. The depth and pace of study are adapted to each student's level and goals.

Weekly lessons are generally recommended to support consistency and steady progress. The appropriate frequency depends on the student's goals, level, schedule, and commitment.

Lesson duration is selected according to the student’s level, needs, and learning goals.

A 40-minute lesson is well suited to foundational study and the development of core skills.

A 55-minute lesson provides additional time to work in greater depth on technique, repertoire, musicianship, and other areas of study.

Practice time depends on the student's level, goals, repertoire, and course of study. As a general guideline:

• Early-Elementary & Upper-Elementary: 30–40 minutes daily

• Early-Intermediate & Upper-Intermediate: 45–60 minutes daily

• Advanced & Diploma: 1–1.5 hours daily

These are general guidelines rather than strict requirements. Consistent, focused practice is more important than simply increasing practice time.

For students under 17, a parent or guardian is required to be present during private lessons.

This supports communication between the teacher, student, and parent and allows parents to follow practice guidance and support consistent work at home.

Yes. RCM examinations can provide clear benchmarks for progress and help students develop technique, musicianship, discipline, and confidence. Preparation is tailored to each student's goals and level.

Yes. In Ontario, certain RCM Practical and Theory levels can qualify for high school music credits. RCM Level 7 Practical and Theory can qualify for a Grade 11 music credit, while Level 8 Practical and Theory can qualify for a Grade 12 music credit, subject to the applicable requirements.

For current requirements, please refer to the Royal Conservatory's official information on high school credits.

Yes. Students may earn one credit for Level 7 and another for Level 8 in different school years, allowing them to receive a Grade 11 credit in one year and a Grade 12 credit in the following year, subject to the applicable requirements.

For current Ontario requirements, please see the Royal Conservatory's official information on high school credits: Learn more about RCM high school credits

There is no single ideal age to begin piano lessons. Children develop at different rates, and readiness depends on factors such as attention span, ability to follow instructions, fine-motor development, and interest in music.

Some children may be ready for individual lessons at a young age, while others may benefit from waiting until they are a little older. For younger beginners, the approach and expectations can be adapted to the child’s developmental stage.

A piano or digital piano is recommended for regular practice. An acoustic piano is not necessary to begin lessons, and a suitable keyboard or digital piano can provide a practical starting point.

For ongoing piano study, an 88-key instrument with weighted keys is generally preferred.

An 88-key instrument with weighted keys and a sustain pedal is generally recommended for piano students. For beginner and intermediate study, a digital piano can be a suitable choice, while an acoustic or hybrid piano can provide advantages for more advanced study.

A height-adjustable piano bench is also recommended to support proper posture and playing position.

Fingernails should generally be kept short enough that you can comfortably play using the pads of your fingertips without the nails contacting the keys. Longer nails can interfere with a natural hand position and may produce clicking against the keys.

Absolutely. Hand size is not a limiting factor. Piano technique can be adapted to the individual, including through appropriate repertoire, fingering, and ways of distributing notes between the hands. The focus is on developing comfortable, efficient technique suited to each student.

Dr. Keyan Emami has more than 25 years of teaching experience. He specializes in piano, music theory, harmony, solfège, and composition, providing individualized instruction for students of all levels.

Yes. Dr. Emami is an RCM-Certified Music Teacher and an RCM Examiner with the Royal Conservatory College of Examiners.

He is also a member of professional organizations including the Ontario Registered Music Teachers’ Association and the Canadian Federation of Music Teachers’ Association.

To inquire about lessons, please use the inquiry form. I will review your information and follow up regarding available lesson times and the most appropriate lesson structure.

If your preferred time is not currently available, I may suggest an alternative time or add your request to a waitlist when necessary.

At least 24 hours’ notice is required for cancellations or rescheduling. Lessons cancelled with sufficient notice may be made up as follows:

• 8-Lesson Program: Up to 1 make-up lesson

• 16-Lesson Program: Up to 2 make-up lessons

Make-up lessons are subject to availability and must be completed within the program period.

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