Think it's too late to start learning an instrument?
Think again !
We have lesson times available during the day, perfect for adult beginners.
Why choose our Music School?
Our music programs promise to nurture each student's distinct talent and inspire a lifetime of enjoyment from music. We can help you develop a program of learning that suits you, in a time that suits you, with a teacher you'll love: Allegro teaches all ages, all abilities, and all instruments.
Click hereto see why Allegro Music School is chosen by so many students.
Brand new to music lessons?
You might wonder what to expect, or have questions about how you or your child could begin learning an instrument. Feel free to give us a call to get all your questions answered, and to begin to outline a program for meeting your music goals.
Our teachers have a proven track record of success, so whether the student is a beginner trying something new or an advanced student studying to become a professional musician, Allegro Music School has a course and a teacher to meet your needs.
Register Now For Lessons . Call Us Today.
(613) 837-6040
...or fill out this handy contact form, and we'll call you!
The piano is one of the most popular and versatile instruments in the world. It is widely used in classical music for solo performances, ensemble use, chamber music and accompaniment. The piano is also very popular as an aid in composition and rehearsal because it offers an easy means of creating complex melodic and harmonic interplay. Although not portable and often expensive, the piano's versatility and ubiquity have made it one of the world's most familiar musical instruments. While the piano has always been largely associated with classical music, these days we can hear it being used in all styles of music, from rock and roll to synth pop to country and everything in between.
Allegro Music School offers piano lessons for students of all ages, and all abilities. We also offer every style of piano lessons from classical to jazz and pop. We have many teachers on staff, so we can match students with a teacher that works best with their particular age, ability and interest. Although our piano lessons are all private, parents are welcome to sit in on the lessons.
For our advanced piano students, we have teachers with Master's Degrees in piano who can prepare students for university entrance or help them to complete their certification with the Royal Conservatory of Music.
Teachers
Shaelyn Archibald
Sophie Bertrand
Jennifer Cunningham
Zelda Golub-Lifshitz
Janet Hamilton
Juliette Kirk
Robert MacSpurren
Sheila O'Neill
Kathy Ruggiero
Sandra Sales
Heidi Schmidt
Grace Tran
Katarzyna Tyrcha
The guitar is a plucked string instrument, usually played with fingers or a pick. There are two primary families of guitars: acoustic and electric. Acoustic guitars with hollow bodies have been in use for over a thousand years. Currently, there are three predominant types in wide use: the classical guitar (nylon-string guitar), the steel-string acoustic guitar, and the archtop guitar. The tone of an acoustic guitar is produced by the vibration of the strings, which is amplified by the body of the guitar acting as a resonating chamber. The classical guitar is often played as a solo instrument using a comprehensive fingerpicking technique. Electric guitars were introduced in the 1930s, and rely on an amplifier that can electronically manipulate tone. Electric guitars have had and continue to have a profound influence on popular culture. Guitars are recognized as a primary instrument in genres such as blues, bluegrass, country, flamenco, jazz, jota, mariachi, reggae, rock, soul, and many forms of pop.
At Allegro Music School our guitar teachers have university music degrees and are very well versed in proper music theory and technique, regardless of what style of music the student is interested in playing. They are also able to teach other similar instruments such as the banjo and ukelele .
Mark Cinkant
Boris Bojic
Singing is the act of producing musical sounds with the voice . Singers can perform songs that can be sung a cappella or accompanied by musicians. It's a myth that only people with a special talent can sing; anyone who can speak can sing, because in many respects, singing is a form of sustained speech. It can be informal and done for personal pleasure, or very formal such as professional singing done on stage or in a recording studio. Singing at a high amateur or professional level usually requires time, dedication, instruction and regular practice, as with all instruments. Professional singers build their careers around a genre, such as classical music or rock, and they typically continue voice training provided by a voice teacher or vocal coach throughout their career.
At Allegro Music School , many students take private voice lessons. They sing everything from popular artists to classical opera, depending on the student's interests. Our voice teachers have university degrees in music specializing in voice, as well as performance backgrounds. We teach how to breathe properly, how to increase range, how to project, how to produce proper pitch, and how to build stage presence.
Jamie Ilagan
The violin is a string instrument, usually with four strings tuned in perfect fifths. It is the smallest, highest-pitched member of the violin family of string instruments, which includes the viola and cello . The violin is also sometimes called a fiddle , regardless of the type of music played on it. The violin has ancient origins, but it acquired most of its modern characteristics in 16th-century Italy. A violinist produces sound by drawing a bow across one or more strings, which may be stopped by fingers of the other hand to produce a full range of pitches, as well as a variety of other techniques. The violin is played within a wide variety of musical genres, including baroque music, classical, jazz, folk music and rock and roll. In addition to western folk and classical music, the violin plays a part in many non-westerm music cultures all over the world.
At Allegro Music School , our teachers help students who are beginning to learn the violin, and those with more experience with it or larger instruments in the string family.
Melissa Reuben
The flute is an instrument of the woodwind family, however, unlike woodwind instruments with reeds, the flute is an aerophone (reedless) wind instrument that produces sound from the flow of air across its opening. Asides from the voice, flutes are the earliest known musical instruments which date back to about 40, 000 years ago. Flute players, or flutists can play several broad classes of flutes.
At Allegro Music School , our flute teacher has the experience to help beginners and more advanced flutists learn proper technique and tone to make beautiful music with this instrument.
Jeanine Headge
Music theory is the study of how music works. It examines the language and notation of music, seeking to identify patterns and structures in composers techniques across or within genres, styles or historical periods. In a grand sense, music theory distills and analyzes the fundamentals, parameters or elements of music rhythm, harmony, melody, structure, form texture, etc. Those who study these properties are known as a music theorists, and some have applied acoustics, human physiology and psychology to the explanation of how and why music is perceived.
Music has many different fundamentals or elements. These include but are not limited to: pitch, beat or pulse, rhythm, melody, harmony, texture, allocation of voices, timbre or color, expressive qualities (dynamics and articulation), and form or structure. In addition to these "fundamentals" there are other important concepts employed in music both in Western and non-Western cultures including scales and modes, consonance and dissonance.
Allegro Music School teaches theory in conjunction with other instruments, as well as separately.
Contact us today to learn more about playing these or other instruments!
Our most popular program choice, Private Lessonsare offered for a variety of instruments. We have found that teaching one-on-one allows students to progress at their own pace and gain the best understanding and enjoyment from their lessons. Students also have to choice of whether they want to learn to play for recreational purposes, or to prepare for Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) exams. Students have the option of 30 minute, 45 minute, and 60 minute private lessons depending on each individual's needs and progress.
The Group Technique class will spend time exploring the intricacies of effective piano playing, allowing the student to strive and develop a technical foundation that is efficient and adaptable. It is important to develop awareness and control of the complete playing mechanism, which consists not only of the fingers and hands, but the entire body. In short, the Group Technique lessons will cover all the technical requirements for the Royal Conservatory of Music examinations.
Students can start private lessons as early as 5 years of age. For younger children, aged 6 months to 5 years, we have an early childhood music program called Staccato Kids.
All of our teachers are fully qualified. Many of the staff hold appointments and memberships to such professional associations as N.A.T.S. (National Assocation of Teachers of Singing), O.R.M.T.A. (Ontario Registered Music Teachers' Association), and A.R.C.T. (Associates of the Royal Conservatory of Toronto).
All lessons are taught on a weekly basis. Students can register and begin lessons at any time of the year or month.
Contact the school office to see which times and days are available.
We offer private lessons for a variety of instruments. We have found that teaching one-on-one allows students to progress at their own pace and gain the best understanding and enjoying from their lessons. Students also have to choice of whether they want to learn to play for recreational purposes, or to prepare for Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) exams.
Also, students are able to choose what style of music they wish to pursue, such as pop, rock, jazz, blues or classical, just to name a few. There are many performance opportunities, such as coffeehouses and recitals, as well as Musical Theatre Showcases for singers.
There are several options for the private lessons. Students can choose between 30 minute, 45 minute, and 60 minute lessons. The duration of the lesson depends on each individual's needs and progress.
PIANO
GUITAR
VOICE
VIOLIN
FLUTE
THEORY
30 minute lesson
$92.00 per month
45 minute lesson
$138.00 per month
60 minute lesson
$184.00 per month
Group Technique Classes
" More is lost through poor fingering than can be replaced by all conceivable artistry and good taste." C. P. E. Bach (Essay on the True Art of Keyboard Playing)
The training of the students ear is important in appreciating the exact timing of sound, the exact quantity and quality of each musical sound that they make. Knowing how to incorporate piano technique skills, i.e. transposition, harmonization, playing by ear, sight playing, securing memory through aural cues, etc. helps the student understand the thought in music, develop his imagination and to use, develop and control the driving force of emotion within each person.
The group technique class will spend time exploring the intricacies of effective piano playing, allowing the student to strive and develop a technical foundation that is efficient and adaptable. It is important to develop awareness and control of the complete playing mechanism, which consists not only of the fingers and hands, but the entire body. In short, the Group Technique lessons will cover all the technical requirements for the Royal Conservatory of Music examinations.
Please note that the Group Technique Class is only open to those who are already registered for private lessons.
Every day my son asks, "Is today Staccato Kids?" because he just loves it that much.
--Staccato Kids Parent
Register now for the Winter 2012 Session of Staccato Kids!
Staccato Kids is an early childhood music program for toddlers, preschoolers, kindergarteners, and the adults who love them.
This program offers age appropriate adventures and activities in music. We will enhance your childs musical development by teaching music concepts using singing, movement, fun games, storytelling, and crafts. The program will ignite imaginations and encourage your child to participate with confidence in the pleasure and delight of music in a positive, sensory rich environment.
Our Staccato Kids classes have a limited enrolment and will begin the week of February 4th. Classes are offered in English and French and will be taught by the two pedagogical experts who created the program, Janet Hamilton and Christine Soroka.
To register for Staccato Kids, drop by the main office for a registration form or call 613-837-6040.
It's not too late to join in the fun! We will pro-rate late joiners registration fee to account for the weeks we've already been in session.
Music therapy is an allied health profession and a field of scientific research which studies correlations between the process of clinical therapy and biomusicology, musical acoustics, music theory, psychoacoustics, embodied music cognition, aesthetics of music and comparative musicology. It is an interpersonal process in which a trained music therapist uses music and all of its facets (physical, emotional, mental, social, aesthetic, and spiritual) to help students to improve or maintain their health. Music therapists primarily help students improve their observable level of functioning and self-reported quality of life in various domains (e.g., cognitive functioning, motor skills, emotional and affective development, behavior and social skills) by using music experiences (e.g., singing, songwriting, listening to and discussing music, moving to music) to achieve measurable treatment goals and objectives. Music therapy is considered one of the expressive therapies. Music therapy can help children with communication problems, attention, motivation, and behavioral problems.
Teacher
TEACHERS
All of our teachers are fully qualified. Many of the staff hold appointments and memberships to such professional associations as N.A.T.S (National Association of Teachers of Singing), O.R.M.T.A. (Ontario Registered Music Teachers' Association), and A.R.C.T. (Associates of the Royal Conservatory of Toronto).
We have the right teacher for you!
Want to meet one of our teachers? Contact us today for a trial lesson!
Flute
Beginner Voice
Beginner Piano
Voice
Piano
Guitar
Music Therapy
Violin
Viola
Rudiments of Theory
Harmony
History
Solfege
Theory
Brianna Quesnel
Choose us for our teachers...
• Long time members of O.R.M.T.A. (Ontario Registered Music Teachers Association), N.A.T.S. (National Association of Teachers of Singing), Give the Arts a Hand N.A.C. (National Arts Centre) and Orleans chamber of commerce.
• University trained teachers
• Choice of multiple teachers for each instrument to fit the student's personality and learning style
Choose us for our programs...
• One-on-one private lessons provided to ensure students learn in the manner best suited for them
•Instruction available for children as young as 5 years of age through to adults
• Group lessons offered with focus on technique
• Programs and lessons for special needs students offered with a registered Music Therapist
• Staccato Kids is an early childhood music program for children 6 months to 5 years of age
Choose us for our flexibility and convenience...
• Students have a choice in what they want to learn, and are not limited to one style of music
• Flexibility to schedule private lessons for multiple family members at the same time to avoid hours of waiting and driving
• Desk staff available to assist you during the teaching hours every day
• Scholarships offered
Choose us to help you reach your music goals...
• Royal Conservatory exam preparation for all grades
• Audition preparation
• Recitals, coffee houses and other performance opportunities offered several times a year
• Students and parents never required to fundraise for studio events
Q: Do you teach adults?
A: Allegro has many adult students, with a variety of experience and ability levels from beginners up to working musicians. Our teachers are prepared to work with students of all ages. Call us today and we'll help you find music lessons that will work for you.
Q: Do I need a piano at home to take piano lessons?
A: It is possible to start with an electric keyboard to practice on. We recommend a keyboard that has regular sized keys and a touch sensitive response.
Q: How long does it take to learn an instrument?
A: There is no set answer of how long it takes to learn an instrument. With regular practice a basic level of playing can be accomplished in a few months. Most of our students take lessons on a long term basis because they want to be constantly improving and they find the lessons enjoyable.
Q: What if we do not have a guitar before starting lessons ?
A: We have guitars that we can lend to students for the first few lessons.
Q: How much do lessons cost?
A: We have very competitive lesson pricing. A half hour lesson is $23/lesson. Full pricing information is located on our Programs page, under Private Lessons.
Q: Is the school closed on holidays?
Please go to the Calendar page.
Q: How early can I begin lessons?
A: Contact us today! We will find a teacher and a time that suits you, and you will likely be able to start working toward your music goals right away.
Q: How will I know if I (or my child) will like music lessons?
A: Try us out! To show you that we are serious about helping each student reach his or her individual goals, we are open to discuss trial lesson periods. Call us to chat; we'd love to help, even if it's just to give a nudge toward a greater appreciation of music. We are passionate about what we teach and eager to share it.
Q: What happens if I miss a lesson?
No allowance can be made for lessons missed by students regardless of notification. However, in the event of the teacher's absence, adjustments will be made.
Q: What is the cancellation policy?
30 days (one month) notice must be given prior to termination of lessons and all fees must be up to date.
I started playing piano when I was 4, in group lessons. I enjoyed it very much, so one year later, my parents signed me up for private lessons. I advanced about one grade each year, and took exams for grades 2, 5, 6, and 8, averaging 83%. I went to Eastern Ontario and Western Quebec Youth Music Festival for five years and won many awards. I went to Allegro Music School after finishing grade 6. Sandra is my music teacher, and I think she is great. I like Allegro Music School because it helps me focus on my music and discover my potential.
- Jason Liu, pianist
Ever since I was little, I have had a passion for singing. The greatest decision I could have ever made was to join Allegro Music School at the age of seven. For the past ten years, now moving on to eleven years, Allegro has taught me many musical abilities, more than I ever imagined. Working with Janet, has not meant being restricted to learning just one genre of music. My lessons have helped me become more proficient with a variety of genres, and have helped me learn to interpret and shape songs in a variety of ways. Allegro has definitely helped me in so many ways, helping accomplish many things, including not only gaining acceptance into the Canterbury High School for the Vocal Program, but also every post secondary institution that I have applied for. Studying with Janet is most definitely the most beneficial part of my life every week. Now, as I move on into music in University, I hope to continue to develop as I so significantly have in the past decade. Janet has been instrumental in inspiring me to become a music teacher. Studying at Allegro has been the most beneficial and influential decision I have ever made, and I am thankful that my parents registered me into the program. I want to thank all the people who have been involved in my musical life. I also wish all the best to all Allegro students, even though it's not needed, because with such a great and talented staff, one can only move forward with Allegro Music School .
- Brianna Quesnel, singer
I have been a voice and piano student at Allegro Music School for 8 years. The experiences I've lived and techniques I have gained at this school are what persuaded me to apply to music programs at university for September 2011. As a singer, I enjoy exploring many different styles, going from classical, musical theatre, contemporary to country. In December 2010, I took part in a project at my school in order to raise money for the Montfort Hospital. The project consisted of selling a song interpreted by students, in which I was the singer, online at Hipsonic.com. All the profits went towards the hospital. The project was a great success and even made our local newspaper! What I love the most about Allegro Music School is the encouraging, welcoming and friendly environment each member of the staff and student provide. It is here at Allegro , that I discovered my potential in music and my passion for it as well. It is with this amazing support that I hope to pursue a career and lifestyle surrounded by music.
- Elizabeth Chamberland, singer, pianist, composer
I have known Juliette for about 7 years now. I have laughed, cried and shared many moments of my life with her. She is my singing teacher. And my friend. She is not only an amazing singer herself. She is one of the best listeners I know. I guess that this is what makes her teaching so special... She knows how to listen to your voice and its variations and "tremolos". How to interpret its melody, with all its raptures and its harmony. I am proud and happy to work with her. She is my star photo of the day with her newly renovated classroom!
- Virginie Mesana (singer)
Leah is a Canadian-born actress hailing from the small metropolis of Embrun, Ontario. She came to Allegro Music School at the tender age of 12 years old and received extensive musical instruction, thus preparing her for a brilliant career in show business.
After much involvement in the Ottawa community theatre scene (credits include Annie Get Your Gun as Annie Oakley), she spent three years completing her Musical Theatre Performance conservatory training at Sheridan Institute in Oakville, Ontario. Roles there included Lizzie Currie in 110 in the Shade and Dot/Marie in Sunday in the Park with George.
From there Leah went on to participate in CBCs televised musical theatre competition Triple Sensation. In the end, she was awarded the winners title along with a scholarship in the amount of $100 000 to continue her studies in musical theatre.
Leah spent a year teaching music and drama in Canada and in Honduras--a lesson in spontaneity and love of performance that she is not likely to ever forget.
Leah has now completed her first year at Brown University, concentrating in Theatre Arts. Shows include Nate Sloans Leavittsburg, OH (chorus), Wait Until Dark (Susy), and Into The Woods (Cinderella).
Leah is currently enrolled as a summer theatre apprentice at Brown/Trinity Rep. This is Leah's first professional production.
http://brown.edu/Facilities/Theatre/btprep/coganl.htm
http://www.stageagent.com/LeahCogan
