Lesson study involves a comprehensive approach that includes technique, repertoire, theory, and performance opportunity.
There is a strong focus on the development of sound fundamentals, including:
-proper form and hand position
-fluency in note reading
-accurate execution of rhythm
-grounding in theoretical principles
Dr. Frantz has helped me truly grow as a pianist. She is such an inspiration to me, and there is no way that I would be at the point I am now if it were not for her. Each time I walk out of my lesson, I’ve gained a variety of musical knowledge. Dr. Frantz has the gift of motivating students to perform at their best while still increasing their love of music.
Lessons are offered forty weeks per year, in five, eight-week sessions. Instruction includes both private lessons and repertoire classes. Repertoire Classes are designed to allow students the opportunity to perform in an intimate, non-threatening environment for their peers. These classes also afford students the chance to share ideas about repertoire as well as discuss the great composers and their historic significance.
Mary Frantz has been teaching my oldest daughter piano for eight years, my youngest for five. Though they are two very different girls, both have flourished under Mary’s dedicated instruction. From the very start, Mary teaches her students good playing posture to avoid injuries. Perhaps best from this mother’s view, she teaches them to work hard at piano but maintain life’s balance, which of course means something different to each student. Because Mary has her doctorate degree in performance, she can demonstrate her instruction on even the most difficult pieces; if a picture paints a thousand words, I’d give a sample performance of a piece a thousand words plus! Lastly, my daughters love Mary, which makes heading to lessons an outing rather than a struggle. If only I could make all of their learning so delightful as lessons in Mary’s studio!
Students have the opportunity to compete in local and regional competitions. Students have appeared as featured soloists with orchestras throughout the state, having won concerto competitions. Students of Mary Frantz have successfully prepared auditions for entrance into some of the most prestigious music programs at universities and conservatories throughout the country.
Students of Mary Frantz present an annual recital to the public in the spring of each year.
In addition, many students appear in various honors recitals throughout the year, resulting from successful competition performance.
