Piano Instruction · Music
This class is a weekly piano lesson, so most of the work is done on your own time. Really it just means that this class is what you make of it! The lessons are 30 min/week, and over the past semesters I've practiced an additional 3-8 hours every week. There is an optional recital at the end of the semester where you can share what you've been working on. It's very chill, and she always describes it "like a lab" where you can receive feedback from the other students in her studio.
You get out of it what you put into it. Practice half and hour to an hour a day and you should be ok.
I genuinely LOVE this course!!! While I haven't taken lessons with any of the other CU piano teachers, I can confidently say that Mirna Lekic is truly a hidden gem on campus. I came into her studio freshman year as an entirely self-taught, late beginner pianist. Now having been with her for multiple semesters (>6), I've greatly developed in my technique and confidence on the piano as I sit more in the mid-to-late intermediate stage. I share this to further emphasize—whether you want to build technique or just play one of your favorite songs, Mirna is there to support YOU and YOUR goals. Not only does she individually select songs for her students and their level/goals, she is spectacular at working directly with her students to help them succeed. If you are struggling with the same section, she breaks that down, finds the issue, and workshops possible solutions. If you didn't have as much time to practice, you can review with her in the lesson without feeling shamed/judged. If you have questions outside of your lesson time, she always answers her emails efficiently. She is a joy to work with. If you've ever wanted to take piano lessons, I could not recommend her enough. Her encouragement and support have genuinely made my experience with this class so phenomenal. When I graduate, piano lessons with Mirna will absolutely be a highlight of my college experience.
I thought I was a decent pianist, but after taking from Niels I was proven wrong. Niels was patient and supportive every step of the way. I practiced every day, yet I still didn't sound as good in my lessons as I did at home. However, Neils never, not once, was condescending or berating. He encouraged me to continue, even though I got frustrated. Best of all, he showed me a better technique. We spent the entire term working on legatto. What a difference it has made in my overall playing ability. I can't thank him enough. Best of all, Niels is a sincere, compassionate, and genuine chap. The gentlest of gentlemen. He is that rare instructor that you cant wait to see every week. He makes your college experience worthwhile. Take piano from him! him
I worked maybe 3 hours a week outside of class.
It's hard to compare to other piano professors, but I know that she was really understanding and talented. I would recommend her to my peers. The course was designed by me and Mirna. I put in what I wanted to get out.