Thinking Outside the "Bachs"... Unique lesson structure -- remarkable lesson programs
The Music Studio -- breaking the rules by combining the traditional private music lesson with theory and modern technology for a complete music program
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| Frequently Asked Questions What should I look for in a music studio?
I want to choose quality over price, but how do your private tuition rates compare with other area studios? Comparing hourly rates, our per lesson fee is $41.75 (current rate for year-round lessons). The average per lesson rate amongst commercial area studios is $45.00. Note: Private, home-based studios offer such a variance in price, schedule and programs that it is difficult to provide an accurate average rate. Only a comparison of commercial studio rates is shown above. Can I take off of lessons in the summer? We offer several programs to meet your scheduling needs throughout the year: the Year Round Program (12 months), the 9-Month Program (September - May), and Month-to-Month Lessons. Note, however, that monthly less with the year-round programs. I need a more economical lesson for all my children...do you offer affordable group lessons? Occasionally, we will offer group classes for both children and adults during the summer, but generally stick to private instruction during the school year. Be sure to check our website in the spring for information on possible offerings. Do I need to buy a piano to take piano lessons? And, I don't know anything about pianos...where do I start looking for one? For success with lessons, Students must practice between lessons. If you do not currently own a piano or have consistent access to one, you should consider purchasing one. We recommend that the piano, whether acoustic or digital, be full size (88 keys) and have weighted keys. Although we are not a retail establishment, we have several different types of pianos that we use in our studio and would be happy to give you a tour, explain the pros and cons of each and let you test them. In addition, we are offering a new Beginning Piano Lesson Program that provides use of a keyboard in your home while you take lessons. You may inquire more by calling 540.659.0506 or emailing TheMusicStudio@aol.com. Where can I rent an instrument? For band and orchestra rentals, we recommend Bang Music on Garrisonville Road, Stafford. Keyboard and piano rentals are harder to find, but please ask us for assistance...we can help! What will my weekly lesson at The Music Studio be like? Our private lessons for ages 8 and older are one session each week -- consisting of applied instruction and theory lab. The time you spend with your instructor will include review of assigned material and repertoire, sight reading, technique (positioning, posture, movement, etc.), performance, and practice recommendations for the week. Although your lesson with the instructor will be one-to-one, there will most likely be other students present in the theory lab. Your theory lab time is self-paced, independent study in a computer lab and piano lab setting. The software programs your instructor assigns are designed to support the lesson or to work on some specific musical aspect. Our programs are very user-friendly, and most are narrated, include testing and record keeping, and will bookmark your place in the program from week to week. Your instructor may have you work on various other projects throughout the year (depending on level of advancement) involving recording, accompanying and technique exercises. Actual length of time spent in the studio each week will depend on the lesson program that you choose. How do I register for lessons or classes? To register for any of our lessons, please call Susan at 540.659.0506. We prefer to have you register in person by appointment. This will give us a chance to meet and chat personally, provide you with a tour of The Music Studio, and get you entered into our computer system for the lessons you want with the instructor you want. I notice that you strongly recommend students play in the recitals. Can we opt out of them if my child is apprehensive? We are asked this question a lot! When it comes to recitals, we don't want to force anyone to do what they really do not want to do. However, performing can be a very positive part of music lessons. Some benefits include
Our lesson program includes recital preparation in the way of group lessons and rehearsals, as well as individual work with instructors on how to practice effectively for a performance. How much should I practice? If Students must have a specific time frame, we initially recommend a minimum of 30 minutes of quality practice daily. However, our instructors will advise each student individually on various practice techniques, how to practice efficiently and effectively, and what the best routine is for your course of study. The initially-recommended "30 minutes" often needs to increase depending on the amount and level of music assigned, but most instructors will agree that practice must be done daily. What can I do at home to ensure my child gets the most from lessons? Set your child up for success by providing the proper instrument, lighting and seating for practice at home. Assist in setting aside ample time for practice without interruption. More importantly, understand that students will have inspired moments when they just want to play their music, and these moments may not be within the allotted practice schedule. Parents can support to their children simply by listening to them practice and offering praise (it's no fun to always practice alone and never get any positive feedback). Make sure that they are practicing, and be involved with their music so you can keep them on track (sometimes all that wonderful playing isn't what the teacher assigned!). Also, the more children are exposed to music, the more effective their musical studies. Promote listening to different genres of music, watching classical music videos/DVDs, reading about composers, musical computer games, and attending events such as concerts, recitals or musical theater. If they have the opportunity to take band or strings at school, playing more than one instrument will greatly add to their lesson quality and reading skills (as will joining a choir or chorus). Your church may also be willing to let them occasionally perform or partake in an ensemble. What other fees are involved in taking lessons?
Where do we find music when we need it? Typically, your teacher will provide you with required method books, supplements and sheets, and you would see that charge appear on your monthly email statement. For shopping on your own, we recommend several places for books, sheet music and music supplies (listed below). At one time we teachers did all the shopping for music. However, we have found that our students and parents become more involved in lessons and appreciative of music and composers if they can share in the music "hunting" process. So, we want students to take the opportunity to browse through music stores and see all the wonderful music that's available. We also think this keeps parents in touch with what their children are studying. The next time you go to a music store, choose some to actually try out...ask the cashier if there's an open practice room and try a little sight reading! Recommended Music Stores: Music & Arts Center, Woodbridge (probably the best option for sheet music browsing) Bang Music, Stafford Roberson's Music, Fredericksburg |
Send mail to TheMusicStudio@aol.com or FlinnPiano@aol.com with questions or comments about this web site.
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