Pianoles in Rotterdam

Wolter Willink studied piano at the Royal Conservatoire in The Hague with Léon Orthel and Theo Bruins and ensemble playing with Gérard van Blerk.
He has extensive experience in teaching at all levels.
His love of music and enthusiasm for piano playing motivate his students.
In addition to his private teaching practice, he has taught for many years at the SKVR Music School in Rotterdam.
As a pianist, he performs theme programmes and request programmes with or without spoken commentary.
He has also worked as a pianist at the Ballet Department of the Royal Conservatoire and at the Dance Department (Eurythmy) of Leiden University of Applied Sciences.
He also gives workshops and lectures on topics such as study skills and the construction and functioning of the piano.
He is a member of the European Piano Teachers Association (EPTA).

Wolter Willink teaches in The Hague and Rotterdam.

The lessons in The Hague are given in the quietly located studio at Laan van Poot 264.
There are two excellent grand pianos available there: a Steinway 2.11 and a Bechstein 2.03.
The studio on Laan van Poot is located near Kwartellaan.
Parking is easy.
Bus and tram stops are within walking distance.

The lessons in Rotterdam are given at the Eduard van Beinum school at Bizetlaan 2 in Rotterdam-Hillegersberg.
There are two pianos in the classroom.
Parking is free. Bus and tram stops are within walking distance.

Weekly lessons usually last 60, 45 or 30 minutes.
This can be adjusted in consultation.
In addition to weekly lessons, it is also possible to arrange lessons on an individual basis.

In The Hague, classes are held on weekdays and evenings (until 10 p.m.) as well as on Saturday mornings and Saturday afternoons.
In Rotterdam, classes are held on Wednesday afternoons and evenings and on Friday afternoons and evenings.

The tuition fee depends on the duration of the lessons, age (up to 20 years old or adult) and type of lessons (weekly or by appointment).
An example: The tuition fee for a student up to 20 years old who receives 45 minutes of individual lessons per week is €131.40 per month.
Full information can be sent by email on request.

Piano lessons are beneficial for all ages, starting from around 6 years old.
The music and lesson content are, of course, fully tailored to the age and musical preferences of the student.
Aptitude also plays a major role: those who are not so skilled will still be able to enjoy simple music. Those who are talented will be able to go very far.
Preparation for competitions is also possible; several pupils have won first prizes.
However, less ambitious pupils are also welcome, as are older people.
The basic principle is that the pupil is willing to practise at home.

Lessons are usually individual.
Group lessons are also possible, with suitable combinations.
Lessons can also be given to piano duos (e.g. pieces for two pianos or quatre mains) or to accompanists of other instruments.

Every student is unique.
That is why there is no set lesson plan that applies to everyone.
However, every lesson focuses on improving playing skills.
The development of musicality, playing skills and practice skills are important aspects of this.
The enjoyment of making music is paramount.
On the one hand, there is a relaxed atmosphere during the lesson, but on the other hand, the work is also very focused.
Ultimately, the pupil wants to make the most of their potential.
This is best achieved with the right balance between effort and relaxation.

Musicality
Listening exercises and solfège contribute to playing more musically: not primarily from a musical notation perspective, but from a musical representation perspective.
At a higher level, ear training serves to learn to perceive music better and more completely.

Technique
Technical exercises improve playing ability.
Just as an athlete trains to push their limits, a student can expand their abilities with targeted exercises.

Theory
A beginner will want to learn to read music step by step.
Secondly, theory leads to a greater understanding of music.
And then it is an important aid in interpreting pieces of music.

Practical skills
How do you work at home to master what you cannot yet do?
How can you study in a focused and efficient manner?
A great deal of attention is paid to this.

Improvisation
Improvisation is literally making music.
It is informal, but also educational.
Students can also choose this option.

Student performance
Once a year, students (who wish to do so) perform during the Student Performance in a hall.
Family, friends and acquaintances are welcome to come and listen.
The performance is very rewarding for both the performers and the audience.

Coronavirus measures and online lessons
During the current coronavirus pandemic, government measures and advice are constantly being adapted to the current situation.
Under these changing circumstances, it is still possible to continue piano lessons, in a more or less adapted form.
For example, specific hygiene measures are in place for physical lessons, the teaching space is ventilated and a minimum distance of 1½ metres is maintained.
If physical lessons are not possible, for example during a lockdown, if someone has coronavirus symptoms, or if someone wants to rule out any risk, lessons are given via video link.
These online lessons remain an option at all times.

English spoken
For people from foreign countries: Wolter Willink does teach in English as well.

Introductory lesson
Anyone considering taking lessons is welcome to attend an introductory lesson.
A personal meeting gives a much clearer impression of the lessons than a detailed description.
The specific wishes of the student can also be discussed at that time.
An introductory lesson is free of charge and without obligation.