HOW DO I GET STARTED?
Register today or contact us with questions or to inquire about open lesson times and upcoming classes! Some of our online courses or self-paced while others start and end at specific times.
DO I NEED ANY PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE?
Not at all! We have options available for students at every level and any age. We recommend that students to do start private lessons until age 6.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE ME TO LEARN?
Hopefully forever! We encourage the pursuit of music as a lifelong learning process. That said, students should notice continual positive change in their skill level and comprehension while they are taking lessons or courses. Progress will also depend greatly on the amount of time a student dedicates to home study. Finally, we do encourage and facilitate specific goal setting for students, whether that be the ability to comfortably play in a particular style or aspiring to learn a specific piece of music or skill.
WHERE IS THE STUDIO LOCATED?
Private lessons are available online or in person in Montpelier, VT. Students can study virtually from anywhere in the world. Classes, courses, and workshops are available online and throughout Vermont. Online music composition courses can also be accessed from anywhere.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I PRACTICE?
Suggested practice times depend on your level, goals, and course of study. Most Foundations students should dedicate 15-30 minutes of practice per day. Intermediate students should plan for 20-45 minutes per day while Early Advanced and Advanced students should practice 40-60 minutes per day. This are very general guidelines. Each student is unique and should speak with their instructor, mentor, or teacher to develop the best practice strategies. We recommend that students practice 5 days per week with one day for their class or lesson and one day for rest.
Developing practice habits including getting plenty of sleep and practicing at regular intervals is important for longterm study of music. Check out this simple practice hack to start developing good habits today.
Developing practice habits including getting plenty of sleep and practicing at regular intervals is important for longterm study of music. Check out this simple practice hack to start developing good habits today.
HOW MUCH DO LESSONS & Classes COST?
Private lessons are $80/hr (or $60 for a 45-minute lesson). Students who take lessons regularly are encouraged to sign up to our Year of Music Making (YMM) or Achievement through Music (AIM) program which includes 9 lessons per quarter at a substantial discount. We only offer 30 minute lessons for beginning students under age 10. Students and families may pay for the Year of Music Making or Achievement through Music tuition in monthly installments if needed.
DO I NEED A PIANO OR KEYBOARD BEFORE I START LESSONS?
Yes! Lessons and classes can be quite frustrating if students do not have access to a functioning and in-tune instrument. Full-size keyboards (88 weighted keys) with a MIDI/USB connection is highly recommended for students who prefer digital keyboards.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOURS?
We currently offer private lessons during the weekend day afternoons and early evenings as well as Saturday morning and afternoon.
What is a Teaching Artist?
See this writing by Eric Booth, one of the leaders in the Teaching Artist field:
ericbooth.net/857-2/
Music Teaching Artists play an integral role in music education, operating at the nexus of private educators, community arts programs, and school classrooms to spark inspiration and provide valuable learning opportunities.
ericbooth.net/857-2/
Music Teaching Artists play an integral role in music education, operating at the nexus of private educators, community arts programs, and school classrooms to spark inspiration and provide valuable learning opportunities.
Do you offer a Multiple Family Member Discount?
Yes, we offer a 5% discount for multiple family members who enroll in private lessons or our Year of Music Making or Achievement through Music program.
WHat is your Attendance & Refund Policy?
We do not provide refunds for any individual private lessons, group classes, workshops, or completed courses. Year of Music Making or Achievement through Music students who wish to withdraw from lessons may do so by the 3rd lesson of the quarter to receive a prorated tuition refund. Private students who do not show up for their lessons are still responsible for paying for the missed lesson. Make-up lessons are only granted to students for illness or other extenuating circumstances with notice given.
Are there any additional Fees?
All students are required to purchase course materials which can range from $40-$100 per year depending on the student's progress, needs, and goals.
Year of Music Making and Achievement through Music students are provided with group performance opportunities as well as additional digital tools free of charge. There is no registration fee.
Year of Music Making and Achievement through Music students are provided with group performance opportunities as well as additional digital tools free of charge. There is no registration fee.
Do You Offer Online Lessons?
Yes! Private lessons are available 100% online. Local student shave the option of visiting the studio in person as long as the student and family are following all health and safety guidelines from the CDC and your state health department.
Can you recommend equipment for digital lessons?
Yes! We can recommend a setup based on your budget that will help make the online experience enjoyable and successful.
Do you use a particular method for private lessons?
Yes and no. We draw on several different pedagogies, methods, and teaching philosophies to create a personalized experience based on each student's needs, goals, and learning strengths. We utilize the American Popular Piano series, the Royal Conservatory's Celebration Series, and many other collections in order to expose students to a variety of styles and ideas.