Frequently Asked Questions
When should my child start music lessons?
The recommended age to begin lessons is between 5-7 years old, slightly younger for the Suzuki method. Some instruments do not come in children's sizes and require considerable fine motor skills, so our instructors may recommend waiting until the child is in 4th or 5th grade. Attention span, reading skills and time available for daily practice are other factors to consider before enrolling your child in music instruction. The Early Childhood and Classes For Kids programs are an excellent introduction to a music learning experience.
What are the Early Childhood classes? What types of activities do you do?
Our Early Childhood classes are for children ages 9 months to 5 years. The parents are involved in all the activities with the students and classes are 30 to 45 minutes long. The classes are designed to give children enjoyable first experiences making music in a relaxed environment. Each class includes singing, movement, playing simple percussion instruments (shakers or drums), and listening to recordings. The instructors use familiar folk songs as well as music composed specifically for our classes. Scarves, books, puppets and other props keep the young children engaged.
How do I know what instrument my child should learn?
Selecting an instrument to study is an exciting decision and an important one. You will have to buy or rent and instrument for daily practice, purchase music books as well as the weekly private lessons. Discuss the various instruments with your child before enrolling him/her in private lessons. Our 6-week Instrument Sampler class (ages 6-9) gives children hands-on experience with the various instruments guided by one of our faculty members.
When can my child start private voice lessons?
In general we advise to wait until a child is 12 or 13 to begin private lessons. Training the voice is demanding on the vocal chords and putting too much stress on them before puberty may cause damage to them. Prior to that, singing in groups such as our Junior Choristers classes (K-2nd Grade), our Treble Junior Providence Singers chorus (Grades 4-8), school or church choirs is the best way to begin your child's vocal education.
What is the Suzuki method?
The Suzuki method is a way of teaching young children (ages 3-10) to become musicians based on the same principles used when learning language - listening, imitating and repeating. Dr. Shinichi Suzuki developed a teaching method that focuses on ear-training, producing a beautiful tone and good instrumental technique. Parent responsibility, loving encouragement, and constant repetition, are some of the unique features of the Suzuki approach. We currently have Suzuki-registered teachers for guitar, violin, piano, flute and cello.
So how is Suzuki method different from Traditional method of instruction?
One notable difference is that Suzuki students will first learn to play music by rote while most traditional method students learn to read written music from the beginning. The Suzuki method requires the parents to be strongly involved in the lessons, becoming a co-learner and daily home teacher. Both methods have weekly private lessons, but the Suzuki lessons are supplemented with regular weekly group classes. Students of either method will become a musician with proper technique, aural (listening) skills and music notation reading skills. Our staff is happy to help you determine what method is best for your child.
Will my child only learn classical music? What about jazz, rock or pop music?
Whatever your child is interested in learning we have teachers that can accommodate. New students will be placed with an instructor based on their interest, level and availability. We encourage parents, students and instructors to frequently discuss what pieces the student is learning and if a different style of music can be introduced.
If I take piano lessons, do I need to own a piano? Is a keyboard okay?
You should have a piano available for daily practice. Some keyboards are acceptable if they are full sized (at least 60 keys), has piano action or is touch sensitive and has at least a damper pedal attachment. Keyboards must be on a stand or desktop that is the appropriate height for proper technique. The differences between keyboards and pianos make it undesirable to use a keyboard past the beginner level. Special care should also be taken when selecting a piano bench that is the appropriate height. Young piano students should also have a foot stool if their feet do not touch the floor.
Do you ever send teachers out to people's home?
No. Students come to one of our branches or to the instructor's home for their lessons. It helps create a sense of formality to lessons. Children can associate learning music with a special place and time.
How much should children practice?
Music students should practice only on the days that they eat! Making a practice routine from the very beginning is important to the success of the student. Our instructors recommend a 6 year old practice 10-15 minutes a day. Older children should practice more. However, the length of practice time is not the only important factor - the quality of the practice is also important. Your child's instructor will provide how-to's and motivational techniques if your child is struggling. The Music School also has It's Up To You! A Handbook for Practicing Music available to purchase which is a wonderful resource.
Do you teach adult beginners?
Absolutely! It's never too late to take music lessons. We have adult students who never played any instrument before or ones that resume lessons they had learned when they were younger. In fact, adults can learn quickly because they already know what the music is supposed to sound like, and have the time and self-motivation to focus during daily practice sessions.
What if my child starts lessons, but changes his/her mind?
Children may become frustrated because they expected learning music would be easier. Parental support through this period is essential. If you're having problems helping with your child's progress at home, discuss it with the instructor. Our instructors will have advice or may be able to modify the lessons to help your child.
Is it a good idea for me to sit in on the lessons with my child?
This depends on the child and the preference of the instructor. Some parents sit in on the lessons with young children while older children usually prefer to be by themselves. Some children may have trouble with both the teacher and parent as an authority figure in the room. Discuss with the instructor your preference and see what works best for your child.
What performance opportunities do students have?
At the end of each semester, The Music School holds general recitals for any student ready to perform. Many instructors also have studio recitals with just their private students. We receive many invitations for student performances at retirement communities, Philharmonic events and expos at the Conference Center. We also have an annual Perform-A-Thon that not only gives our students a chance to perform, but also helps raise money for our scholarship program.
Does my child have to be in a recital?
No, although it is encouraged. The focus needed to prepare for a performance is an invaluable experience and recitals give a sense of accomplishment boosts your child's self-esteem and ability to tackle challenges. If your child is nervous about recitals, we strongly recommend they attend in the audience..