Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often do I take lessons?
A: Lessons are given once a week at the student’s scheduled time slot.

Q: How long are lessons?
A: Lessons are given in either half hour or hour slots. Students tend to progress more rapidly when taking hour lessons; half hour lessons are recommended for younger children.

Q: Is there an age requirement?
A: We typically advise a minimum age of 6; however, some 4 - 5 year olds are able to focus for a 30- minute lesson. Children through retirement age are accepted.

Q: How much should I Practice?
A: Practice varies according to one’s level, goals and available time. For beginners, 10-15 minutes or perhaps 3-4 repetitions of their assignment each day is a reasonable goal to start with. Most students should average 30+ minutes; those with higher expectations should practice more. It is best to set aside a certain time of day to enjoy your instrument. We also include practice techniques and tips to get the most from your time.

Q: Do I need an instrument to take lessons?
A: Piano - It is ideal if you have an acoustic piano in your home. Otherwise, an electronic keyboard will be fine to begin with. It is recommended that you use a keyboard that has regular-sized and touch-sensitive (weighted) keys.

Guitar/Bass/Mandolin – Players should have the correct instrument for their physique and style(s) they wish to pursue. Mandolins are all one general size. There are 1/2, 3/4 and full sized guitars & basses, plus a variety of body styles. Feel free to ask for advice on your selection.
Please note that you are free to use one of several instruments here should you need to come directly from work or school.

Q: How long does it take to learn an instrument?
A: Your results depend on the quality & frequency of your practice time. Talent is an elusive word, since most players vary in terms of specific strengths. Beginners usually play easy melodies in a short time. In a few months, players begin to establish a variety of essential skills. Most students take long-term lessons to continue evolving, and because they find it gratifying.

Q: What materials do you use?
A: We use recognized instructional materials designed by music educators. We keep abreast of ongoing developments in music education. Lessons are supplemented with requested pieces and, if needed, handouts to address students’ particular challenges.

Q: What technologies do you use?
A: We often use music notation software for transcribing and arranging. Recorded play-along and sing-along tracks may be speeded up, slowed down and changed to different keys. Practice loops (repetition of a certain section) can also be helpful. Vocalists and fretted instrument players may record themselves along with a pre-recorded background. Guitarists have access to amplifier modeling & various effects.

Q: Do you offer lessons in my home?
A: No – we do not recommend in-home lessons. With only 30 - 60 minutes per week, a focused learning environment has a distinct advantage over such home distractions as pets, siblings and the like. Another important consideration is access to our beneficial materials, technology and library.

Q: Do you provide gift certificates?
A: Yes. Gift Certificates are a great way to give an interested friend or family member a chance to begin or continue their musical journey. Gift certificates are available for packages of four or eight lessons.

Q: How do I start?
A: Please contact us by email or phone to schedule lessons. We will provide you with a list of open times. If you have two or more family members interested, we will do our best to schedule their lesson times together if needed.