Frequently Asked Questions
I have answered some of the more common questions about the Russian Music Academy of America. If you do not see a question here that you would like answered, feel free to contact me.
Tuition
Please contact to learn current tuition rates by email elzaritter@gmail.com
HOME SCHOOLED students have SPECIAL rates and should contact for more details.
What is your program?
Our program is more than just piano playing. It includes a music theory, music history, sight-reading, solfejio and ear training.
It also includes a course which coach students to play duets , concertos and chamber music with other instrumentalists.
We have a library of music scores, music books, and CDs which we encourage students to use.
We accompany and support students/parents to go to concerts/museums to get educated and get an understanding and appreciation of classical music.
Do you send students to Festivals and Competitions?
Yes, we do. Depending on the student's preparation level to match the level of competition.
In 2006 all of my students who participated in Spring Festival, received "Superior".
Do you teach your students by feeling or by rule?
I use a combination of both. I follow certain rules, however, I use my intuition and feelings.
What are your expectations of your students in their weekly lesson? ( A-C)
I am very particular when it comes to weekly lessons. It is expected of my students to practice regularly. Sometimes I give my students another chance/week to be prepare better. Even after giving them an extension if the student is not prepared I give them "C". I don't like giving bad grades and for me there is no in "between".
I give tests weekly for different subjects: piano pieces (can be different varieties of tasks: right hand only, counting only, etc), techniques: scales, or 5 finger patterns with different articulation marks, theory... depends on weakness of the student.
For me the home preparation is very important. Without commitment to practice seriously at home, there will be no progress.
Do you use different teaching methods for teen-age children and other age children?
I look at every student as a person. I believe that every one has different personality and character, and I stay closely in touch with parents to learn more about a student to find the "special" way for each one.
Did you take the psychoanalysis course before or after you started your piano lesson business ?
I have a masters degree in piano pedagogy from one of the most prestigious music conservatories in the world, which had a big curriculum on methodology and psychology of teaching students (kids also).
What do you appreciate in student?
I take great pleasure in seeing my student's progress both musically and maturing as they progress. I take great pride of each of my student's personal progress whether it be in recital or their development to the next level.
What do you do if the students could not match your request on the lesson?
A student should be committed to practicing regularly and performing. On occasion, there may be a reason for the child not to be prepared, i.e. vacation, sickness, etc., however, these should be the rare exception and not the norm. If the child comes unprepared, I council both the child and the parent. If this continually happens, I recommend the child to another teacher, whose program could be better match for this student.
What is your rule for the emergency cancelled or switch lesson?
For a true emergency, up to 4 times a year, I may allow a rescheduling where I have an open slot. All cancellations within 2 hours will be considered a lesson earned. Family vacations made with a two-week notice are allowed. I follow Fairfax county public school closings for my lessons dealing with inclement weather. As for switching lesson times or dates, with adequate advance notice, these may be made, subject to availability of time slots.
Do you have any children? If yes, how many and how old are they?
My son Tim Ritter is a freshman at Old Dominion University. He will be playing on a golf and academic scholarship.
Besides being successfull academically and in sports he has a great personality and is a wonderful son and grandson. He also plays the piano and loves music.
