top of page

FAQs

1. What makes Piano Proficiency Academy (PPA) different from other online piano lessons?

Unlike traditional 1-on-1 piano lessons that often focus on performance and repertoire, Piano Proficiency Academy is designed to build practical and versatile piano skills that can be applied directly to your teaching and musicianship. At Piano Proficiency Academy, you'll learn essential tools such as harmonization, transposition, score reading, and improvisation—for example, how to choose the right chords to accompany a simple melody. These skills are especially useful for music educators, conductors, and instrumental teachers, helping you support your students more effectively in areas like aural skills, music theory, and accompaniment.

2. How much practice time is required?

You don't need to set aside a separate time just for practice. The course is designed to be interactive—with practice opportunities built right into the lesson videos. You can follow along as you watch, and you're encouraged to pause anytime to try things out on your own. This flexible format makes it easy to fit practice into your schedule at your own pace.

3. What equipment do I need?

You'll need a keyboard or digital piano to follow along with the lessons. While an 88-key weighted keyboard is ideal, it's not required—any basic keyboard will work for the course. For the best learning experience, we recommend using a laptop or iPad to view the lessons. You can also access the course on your phone, but due to the smaller screen size, it's not the most comfortable option for extended learning.

4. Do I have to start from Level 1?

Not at all! With a Premium Membership, you’ll have full access to all levels of the Piano Proficiency Academy. You're free to start at the level that best fits your current skills and goals. However, please note that each level is designed with a structured progression, so we recommend following the lessons in order within the level you choose to begin with.

5. Is Piano Proficiency Academy a live class or a recorded course?

Piano Proficiency Academy is a hybrid course—both video-recorded and interactive! You’ll progress through each module by watching guided instructional videos, completing practice assignments and quizzes, and submitting short videos of your playing for feedback.

6. Can I get personal support if I have questions?

Absolutely! If you ever need more personalized help, you can book a 1-on-1 lesson with one of our instructors—including Dr. Helena Aung, depending on availability. The booking is available upon request.

7. Who created this program?

This curriculum was designed and taught by Dr. Helena Aung, who has taught the Group Piano courses for non-piano majors at the collegiate level for over 10 years. She created this recorded version so that anyone—even those outside of university music programs—can access structured, high-quality piano instruction.

8. How long does the course last, and how is it structured?

The course is modular and ongoing. We release new modules every month, and there is currently no end limit—we’re continuing to build the content library based on students’ needs. Each module includes 4–5 weeks’ worth of structured content, guiding you step by step through functional piano skills like harmonization, score reading, improvisation, and more.

9. What do I get with the membership?

-Step-by-step video curriculum -A structured, self-paced program designed to teach you essential functional piano skills such as harmonization, score reading, accompaniment, and improvisation. -Unlimited access to the video library -Watch and rewatch the lessons anytime, at your own pace. New modules are added regularly. -Interactive assignments and quizzes -Submit videos, complete module-based tasks, and track your progress as you go. -Supportive online community -Connect with other learners, share your journey, and stay motivated together. -Access to 1-on-1 lessons -Need personal guidance? You can book a 30-minute private lesson with one of our instructors—for just $50 (optional)

bottom of page