The short version
You can hear the difference from one week to the next: steadier tempo, cleaner changes, more confident reading, and a growing set of pieces you can play through without stopping.
You reached out because lessons need structure that works around school and practice time, or because you have an instrument at home and want a plan that beats guessing. You’ll leave each lesson knowing what to practise, what tempo to aim for, and what we’re checking next time. If you’re happy to go ahead, you can pick a schedule and I’ll book your first session.
I start with a short level check and a goal chat, then I build lessons around three tracks that stay consistent: technique that makes playing feel easier, reading and ear skills that make music make sense, and repertoire that gives you something satisfying to play while the basics settle in.
About me
I’m Elena Galli, a music teacher at Portico Music Studio. I teach because I like turning “I can sort of play this” into “I can play it on purpose”. Most of my work is weekly one to one lessons, with group sessions when it helps, and a lot of time spent making practice feel clear rather than overwhelming.
People come to me when they want structure. I don’t fill the hour by having a play and hoping it sticks. Each lesson ends with a short practice plan for the days between sessions, with tempo targets and checkpoints you can tick off. If something is not improving, I change the assignment and show you a different way in the next lesson.
“My practice finally made sense, and the improvement was obvious each week.”
Parent, a busy school week at home
What a session looks like
Most sessions are 45 to 60 minutes, taught one to one. Bring your instrument if you can, plus a notebook or notes app for your practice plan. If you are online, you’ll need a stable camera angle and a way to hear backing tracks.
1. Level check First session I listen to what you can already do, even if it is only a few notes or a simple riff. I’ll ask what you want the instrument for, what music you enjoy, and how much practice time is realistic between lessons. Then I pick one or two starting targets we can measure next week. 2. Technique reset Each session I watch posture, hand position, and how you are getting your sound. I’ll make small adjustments, then have you repeat them with a simple pattern so it sticks. If something is causing tension or messy notes, I show you a different setup you can copy at home. 3. Music and skills Each session We split time between pieces and skill work. That can mean reading, ear training, rhythm, scales, or chord work, depending on the instrument and your goal. I keep the exercises tied to the music you are learning, so practice time moves the same problems forward. 4. Plan for the week Last 5 minutes I write you a practice plan with short tasks, a suggested order, and tempo targets where that helps. You’ll leave with one main focus, one review task, and one piece of repertoire to keep enjoyable. Next lesson starts by checking these points, not by guessing what to do.
What it costs
Most people start weekly for the fastest progress you can hear; if you need a looser rhythm, a term works well because it keeps the plan moving even when a week gets busy.
Priced items
Getting started
If you want to start, sign this proposal and I’ll send over lesson times to choose from.
1. Sign and send back this proposal. 2. Pick a weekly or fortnightly slot from the times I send you. 3. Start your first session with a level check and a simple practice plan.
Signature
Fee summary
How often should we do lessons to actually improve?
Weekly lessons are the usual pace, because you get a regular check in before small mistakes become habits. If your schedule is tight, I can plan a fortnightly rhythm, but I’ll give you a stricter practice plan so the gaps do not turn into lost momentum.
DO YOU TEACH BEGINNERS FROM ZERO, AND DO WE NEED TO BUY AN INSTRUMENT FIRST?
Yes, I teach complete beginners. If you do not have an instrument yet, I can guide you on what to rent or buy so you do not spend money twice. For the first session, we can still start with rhythm, basic note reading, and setup.
WHAT DO YOU DO IN A LESSON: IS IT MOSTLY SONGS, OR EXERCISES AND READING TOO?
It is both, and I balance it based on your goal. Songs keep motivation high and show progress in a way you can hear. Exercises and reading build control, timing, and confidence. I link the exercises to the song so they solve a real problem.
IF I MISS A WEEK, WHAT HAPPENS WITH THE LESSON?
If you need to move a lesson, tell me as early as you can and I’ll offer the next available slot. Cancellation notice, late cancellation fees, and no show fees are set by the owner and depend on the schedule you choose, and I’ll confirm them in writing before you book.
Payment
Music lessons program memberships and terms are invoiced at the start of each period, before the sessions take place. Each invoice is payable within 7 days of its date.
Scheduling. I’ll confirm your regular slot once you book. If you need to change day or time later, I’ll offer the next available option that keeps your lesson rhythm workable.
Cancellations. If you need to move a lesson, tell me as early as you can. The cancellation notice window and any late-cancellation fee are set by the owner, and I’ll confirm them in writing before you book.
No shows. If you miss a lesson without notice, it’s treated as a no-show. Any no-show fee is set by the owner and depends on the schedule you choose, and I’ll confirm it before you book.
Using a pack or term
Monthly and term sessions are used within the period they cover. Any carry-over, make-up rules, or expiry are set by the owner, and I’ll put them in writing before you book.
Instruments and materials. You’re responsible for having an instrument you can practise on between lessons. If you’re choosing a first instrument, I’ll guide you on what to rent or buy so you do not spend money twice.
Practice between lessons. Progress depends on what you do between sessions. I’ll give you a short practice plan with tempo targets and checkpoints, and you’ll get the most from lessons by following it most days.
Limits of lessons. Music lessons are coaching and skill-building, not medical care or therapy. I can’t guarantee exam results, audition outcomes, or a fixed timeline, but I can keep the work structured and measurable.
