Frequently Asked Questions
Why Take Lessons?
Private lessons are a key element of musical instruction. They allow the student to get 1-on-1 guidance from a professional musician with the problem-solving and special techniques so necessary to the mastery of an instrument. This is a great resource for any music student regardless of age or level and is essential for those who wish to hone their playing to the highest level.
What Do We Do?
Most private lessons meet once per week for a fixed length of time. This time is divided between playing and conversation about the student’s strengths, weaknesses, goals, practice habits, etc.
Material covered in lessons will include exercises to reinforce fundamentals of musicianship and brass technique. Students will also work out of one or more “etude” (or study) books, collections of short pieces/exercises which are designed to teach certain concepts. The books used will vary according to the level and needs of the student.
Besides these staples of the musical diet, we will spend a great deal of time delving into music specific to the individual student’s needs. Lesson content will differ depending on the student’s goals, whether playing for themselves for fun, performing with a school/church band or orchestra, or preparing for a career in music.
Lesson Types, Time, and Cost:
The rates and other information listed here apply to my private studio. If you are taking lessons through a school, arts academy, university or other institution, the rates & policies written here may not apply to you. Refer to the published rates/policies of the institution where you are taking lessons. If you are uncertain about rates, policies or payment contact me using the phone/email on my home page.
• Studio lesson rates:
$15 per lesson for 45 minutes
This is the rate for most of my lessons including those met at my home or office.
Standard lesson length will be approximately 45 minutes, though lessons are schedule
an hour apart to allow for a little extra time if necessary.
• In-School/ In-Home lessons:
$15 per lesson for 30 mintues
$25 per lesson for 1 hour
Some lessons may be arrange at the students’ school. This is usually arranged through
the band teacher for multiple students. The difference in lesson length/price is to allow for
multiple lessons within a class period and to compensate for my travel time. Some band
programs have standard rates different from those listed here, if you are unsure what rate
applies to you please contact me.
If lessons in the students home are desired, arrangements may be possible. Availability
of in-home lessons is dependent on my teaching schedule and the student’s location.
• Distance learning:
Students who are unable to travel to lessons or do not have a teacher nearby may be
interested in video lessons via tape or webcam. Video lessons must be a minimum of 1
hour in length. Content must be discussed in advance so that both parties can get
copies of the materials. Contact me for further details.
Music: Students will need to purchase music such as etude books and solo literature for use in lessons. After discussing appropriate materials with students and parents, I can suggest music stores where these items can be purchased or I can buy them and include the amount in your bill.
Billing: Charges are billed at the end of each month. Prompt payment is expected and can be made by check or online by credit card or PayPal account (see “Online Payment” for more information). If a check is returned, the customer is responsible for any associated fees.
Attendance/Cancelations: If I must cancel a lesson, we will arrange a make-up time or the lesson will not be billed. If a student is going to miss a lesson, I must be informed at least 24 hours in advance or they may be charged for the lesson without a make-up time. Exceptions to this policy are solely at my discretion.
ALWAYS Bring to Lessons:
1. Instrument 2. Music 3. Assignment Book 4. a Pencil
Practice, Practice, Practice…
Beginners should practice at least a 1/2 hour each day, 5 days a week. More advanced students should practice every day for an hour or more. Collegiate/graduate students should aim to practice 3 hours or more divided between 2 or 3 sessions. Remember that for effective learning, repetition is more important than length of time... a few minutes every day can be better than 2 hours the day before your lesson. The aim is not only to sound good the day of your lesson but to develop good habits so you will sound your best every time you play and experience continuing growth as a musician.