Piano:  An acoustic piano is the preferred instrument. Students can properly practice and apply all the proper techniques and concepts at home that they have learned in lessons.  If space is limited, a digital piano with 88 weighted keys will suffice.  A keyboard is not the same as a digital piano, and practice on a keyboard will result in frustration and inability to practice correctly.  It is not necessary to spend a fortune in order to get an instrument.  Your instructor will be happy to recommend resources or assess a particular instrument.

Guitar/Ukulele:  There are lots of wonderful acoustic guitars, beginner guitar packs, and beginner ukulele packs. These can be found through Amazon, Guitar Center, and any local music stores.  Making a trip to your local music store will ensure correct sizing for your child.  Your instructor will be happy to recommend resources or assess a particular instrument.

Violin/Viola: String instruments of this family should be rented during early instruction as the student grows in size.  Violins and violas are measured to the student and can be done at your place of rental.  Once the student is of high-school age, a higher-quality instrument can then be purchased if so desired.

Beginner lessons are typically 30 minutes.  As each student progresses through the first year of study it is highly recommended to have lessons that last 45 minutes.  This enables the student and teacher to have enough time to review, learn, and work on content such as technique, repertoire, musical concepts, and theory.  Each student is unique however, so talk to your instructor if you are unsure of your child’s needs.

Students in the academy receive a well rounded education.  We teach from a variety of styles including but not limited to classical, folk, broadway, jazz, blues, and pop.  Composition and improvisation are also included in order to cultivate the vast creativity within your child!

The amount of practice time required varies by age and experience.  Your teacher will give you an expectation of the time involved.  Younger children benefit greatly from the aid of a parent during some of their practice, even if the parent has not had training.

Lessons are split between warm-ups/technical exercises, theory, and repertoire work.  The order and duration of these components is entirely individualized to each student’s needs.  Student goals and objectives are constantly evolving in scope and detail.  Each instructor is happy and encouraged to explain what is learned in each lesson.