Most questions about the studio can be answered by reading my studio policy. Click here to read. 

Answer:  Having the right instrument can really make a huge difference in the progress a student makes and their enjoyment of lessons. Every person taking lessons MUST have an instrument at home to practice on.  See equipment specifications below for ideas.  

Piano:

Ideally for piano lessons, the student will have a full size well maintained piano or a full size, 88 key digital keyboard with weighted keys, a keyboard stand, a music music stand, and a sustain pedal.  Both of these options are fine!  If you do not want to invest in a full size keyboard just yet, another option is a 61 key keyboard ( I recommend either Yamaha or Casio Brand) with a keyboard stand, music stand and sustain pedal.  Keep in mind that the 61 key setup will likely last you about 2 years before needing a full size digital piano to progress. 

Guitar/Electric Bass:

After meeting for our initial chat I will provide you with some recommendations that I believe will be best suited for you.  We will take into account the students' size, interests, and goals when choosing an instrument.  

Question:   What kinds of equipment will I need for online lessons?

Answer:  You will need a device with access to the internet and zoom software.  You will also need some sort of a stand to put your device in so that I can see you while you play.  A pair of bluetooth earbuds is also helpful, but not required. I really suggest investing in a stand or tripod that can keep your camera steady and easily adjustable so that we do not use up precious lesson time readjusting the camera so I can see the student's hands.  

Question: Can an Online lesson have the same high quality as an in-person lesson? 

Answer:  For many students, yes! I use the following equipment to teach highly interactive, high quality online lessons.  

-Zoom Software with specialized music settings

-Dual Webcams to switch between a keyboard view of my hands and my face. 

-Google platforms to easily share lesson materials and personalized lesson notes. 

-A drawing tablet so we can write in fingerings, etc. in real time. 

Online lessons work particularly well for adults and mature teens as well as some younger kids who are able to navigate both the technology side of online lessons and learning the instrument at the same time.  

In general, I do not teach online lessons to very young children.  My professional opinion is that the developmental needs of young children are best met with in person instruction. 

Question:  How can I tell if my child is ready for music lessons?

Answer: To be ready to learn an instrument a child must:

-Be able to sit relatively still with some focus for the duration of the lesson.

-Be able to physically hold or sit at the instrument in a way that is safe for them and the instrument, and allows them to play to the best of their ability.

-Be able to be a respectful of the instructor, the space, and other students if in a group. 

-Have a grownup available who is willing to remind them to practice and get them to and from lessons on time.

Question:  Should I or my child do a private lesson or a group lesson?

Answer:  For most beginning to intermediate students, a group lesson is an appropriate choice.  My group lessons provide a fun social atmosphere positive peer pressure, and a chance to work at your own pace.  A 60 minute group lesson costs the same as a 30 minute private lesson.   Show up, play music with others, have fun, and get better!  Most students will be placed into group lessons with other peers in a similar age group.  

Private Lesson slots are reserved for Students who:

-Are willing to put in significant practice time.  At least 30 mins. a day 5 days per week. 

-For kids, have a parent who is willing to supervise daily practice as necessary and sit in on lessons as needed.

-Are working towards college auditions, NYSSMA solos, or other exams.

-Are in need of modifications where a private lesson would be a better fit. (Example: a disability that requires one on one instruction, specific musical goals such as working on accompaniment skills, etc.)

Question:  Is it too late for me to learn to play an instrument or sing?

Answer:  Absolutely not!  I have taught many adults who have always wanted to learn an instrument or to improve their singing!  Every person should have the chance to learn an instrument and/or sing, and adults of any age are no exception! 

Question:  What is included in my monthly tuition?

Answer:

Your tuition includes:

Weekly lesson Times

1 Makeup lesson credit per semester (Fall and spring) 

The use of some materials

Recital Fees

Access to my lending library

Admission into additional studio events such as workshops, etc. from September-June. 

Question:  What happens if I need to miss a lesson?

Answer:

Each student is allowed two makeup lessons per year- one in the fall semester, and one in the spring.  These will be held during a designated makeup lesson week once per semester.  Beyond these makeup lessons, if a student misses a lesson they simply miss the benefit of that lesson. I will spend the student’s lesson time preparing materials and instruction for that student, or with advance notice we can do a video exchange lesson. There are no refunds for missed lessons. 

Instructor Cancellations:

I have included two flex weeks in the studio calendar year in the event that I need to cancel for illness, emergency, etc.  These two weeks are not included in your tuition.  If I do not need to use these flex weeks, then you will end up with 2 free lessons.  If I need to cancel beyond those two I will offer an additional makeup lesson.