Elementary Group Piano

Piano fundamentals for students in grades 4 - 5

Designed for students in grades 4–5, Elementary Group Piano introduces young musicians to the fundamentals of piano performance in an engaging and collaborative setting. Classes are held in UNI's piano lab, where students learn using electronic keyboards equipped with headphones. 

Students will explore:

  • Piano basics and keyboard geography
  • Music notation and note reading
  • Rhythm and counting skills
  • Ensemble playing
  • Musical teamwork and listening skills

For years, group piano instruction was a standard course in U.S. public schools. In this group setting, students would learn the fundamentals of piano, musical rhythm and notation, the art of ensemble, and teamwork. 

In group piano lessons with Madelyn Potter, your students will receive all of these elements, and have fun while learning! 

She creates engaging activities that both challenge and motivate students to grow their musical abilities. All group lessons are held in UNI's very own piano lab, featuring electronic keyboards and headphones. Students will also receive the opportunity to perform in an ensemble piece at the CMS Student Recital. Come learn how to play the piano in a welcoming environment, where students learn to prioritize effort over talent, acceptance over avoidance, self-reflection over comparison, and progress over perfection.Through interactive activities and group learning experiences, students are challenged and motivated while developing foundational musicianship. Participants will also have the opportunity to perform an ensemble selection at a Community Music School student recital.


Madelyn Potter leading a group piano class with young students.

Class Schedule

Level 1

Fall Semester

  • Meets Wednesdays 6:00 - 6:45 pm
  • Dates: August 26 - December 9 (no class November 25)
  • Location: Russell Hall 61, Piano Lab
  • Cost: $300
  • Class Materials: Hal Leonard Piano Lesson Book 1 (additional materials provided by teacher)

     

Level 2

Spring Semester

  • Meets Wednesdays 6:00 - 6:45 pm
  • Dates: January 27 - May 12 (no class March 17)
  • Location: Russell Hall 61, Piano Lab
  • Cost: $300
  • Class Materials: Hal Leonard Piano Lesson Book 1 (additional materials provided by teacher)
Madelyn Potter sitting in front of a grand piano.

Meet Your Teacher

Madelyn Potter is a piano instructor with a passion for creating welcoming and engaging learning environments for musicians of all ages. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes progress over perfection, encouraging students to develop confidence and musical skills through consistent effort, self-reflection, and collaboration.
Madelyn's teaching approach encourages students to value effort over talent, acceptance over avoidance, self-reflection over comparison, and progress over perfection.