Piano Lessons
Piano lessons, either online or in-person, are offered to all ages including adults and seniors All levels and styles of music are taught. Ford offers a traditional approach as he works to develop a solid technique and a fluid ability play classical, jazz, and modern styles. It is not just a piano lesson it's a complete, in-depth and fun music program. The lessons include music theory and history, ear training and sight reading. The lessons are tailored to each student's skill and needs.
RCM Certified Teacher
Ford is a RCM Certified Teacher and qualifies under the category of an Advanced Piano Specialist. In addition to this, he is also a member of the Ontario Registered Music Teachers' Association
Online Lessons
Online lessons are an attractive option for those with busy schedules, travel frequently, confined to home, or can't find the right teacher in there local area.
How Online Lessons Work
The setup for an online piano lesson is very simple. Zoom is widely used for the purpose. A laptop computer is preferable. A cell phone or tablet do not work well as the image generated is too small and it is difficult to aim the camera. A music stand is used to position the camera. However, if you do not have a music stand then you can easily improvise. Use the email contact form at the bottom of the page for more information or to book a free trial lesson.
Music Without Boundaries
Music Without Boundaries is a new program developed by the Royal Conservatory of Music which offers for the first time in history remote (online) examinations. It is now possible to complete your practical (instrumental) and theory (written) requirements in your own practice space, on your own instrument, at your own pace, with no travel time.
Studio Lessons
Ford continues to teach in-person lessons from his studio which is located 5 minute walk from the College Park Subway Station. Use the email contact form at the bottom of the page for more information or to book a free trial lesson.
FAQ
Tuition
Ford conducts weekly piano lessons. The lessons range in length from thirty to sixty minutes. The length depends on age, level, and the amount of time for practice. The tuition for lessons is $60 per hour. The fee for a 30-minute lessons is $30. Students are required to pay for lessons one month in advance. Lesson policies followed are those recommended by the Ontario Registered Music Teachers' Association. Use the email contact form at the bottom of the page for more information or to book a free trial lesson.
Playing for Time: Trending of Adult Piano Lessons
Video Critiquing Service

Working on repertoire and need a fresh perspective or some encouragement?
Video record your performance then upload it to your private YouTube channel. Submit the link and receive a written critique of your performance.
Features of this Novel Service
- receive a written critique for as little as $20 (critique only a numerical mark will not be given)
- no obligation or strings attached and completely confidential
- highlights successful aspects your performance as well as key areas to address in order to elevate your performance
- remain in control as a private URL link to a YouTube channel is used (video is not transferred)
- done from the comfort of your home
Eligible Repertoire
Repertoire from the any of standard Piano Syllabi ranging from Level 1 up to ARCT is be eligible for submission. The fee for this service is based on the length of the video. The maximum length is 20 minutes. Repertoire is often be selected from the following syllabi: RCM Piano Syllabus and the RCM Popular Selection list.
Student Accomplishments
- Ford is Certified by the Royal Conservatory of Music as an Advanced Piano Specialist. He has prepared numerous students for the RCM Exams during his decades of teaching. In the most recent session, three exams received a standing First Class Honors with Distinction.
- Ford has successfully prepared two students for the entrance audition into the Faculty of Music at the University of Toronto
- Resulting from outstanding performances, his students have received numerous scholarships from the Central Toronto Branch of ORMTA (Ontario Registered Music Teachers' Association) including the Maria Case Trophy (awarded for an outstanding performance of a Canadian Composition).
- Ford's students have routinely appeared in master classes and festivals such as the Contemporary Canadian Showcase and the Kiwanis Festival
The Rise of Online Music Lessons: Resistance is Futile
Benefits of Music Education
"Music can change the world because it can change people." - Bono
- Music conveys our cultural heritage. It is as important to know about Beethoven and Louis Armstrong as it is to know about Newton and Einstein
- As an inherent intelligence in all people, musicianship deserves to be developed
- Creative and self-expressive, it enables the expression of our noblest thoughts and feelings
- Students learn about their relationships with others, in both their own and foreign culture
- Music enhances Scholastic Performance
- Students experience avenues of success they may not experience elsewhere in their educational curriculum
- Students learn that not all life is quantifiable
- Music exalts the human spirit
The Benefits of Music Education: An Overview of Current
Neuroscience Research by the Royal Conservatory of Music, 2014
Get Your Child to Practice
Biography
Ford Barker has pursued two different career paths. His first career was in Life Sciences. Ford completed his BSc in Life Sciences at Queen's University in Kingston. Following this, he worked at the University of Toronto on various research projects. While doing well in this field he felt a need for change. He decided to follow his life-long passion for music.
Benefits of Study with a Registered Music Teacher
- Assurance of qualified knowledgeable instruction
- Opportunities for performance at Music Festivals, Examinations, Public Recitals, Studio Recitals and Master Classes, and Canada Music Week Celebrations
- National and Provincial Student Competitions
- Opportunities for students to receive scholarships in both practical and theoretical subjects
- Opportunities for advanced students to develop applied pedagogical knowledge and experience needed to obtain a Teachers Associate Diploma

















