FAQs

When’s the right time to start my child with violin lessons?

There’s no “one size fits all” answer to this question!  The best indicators are that your child is asking to take lessons, loves other musical activities, and keeps asking for music lessons. You should also consider where violin practice will fit into your daily schedule.  It doesn’t need to be a lot of time, but consistency matters and students won’t improve very fast unless they put in some time at home. Children need hands-on parent involvement to their practice sessions so being ready for the time commitment as a family is just as important as the child’s interest level.

How long should I/my child practice each day?

For young beginners, I suggest a length of practice time equal to their age (eg. a 3 year old should aim to practice for 3 minutes per day).  As a student progresses, the eventual goal is to practice daily for about the same length of time as the lesson (if you take a 30 minute lesson, aim for 30 minutes per day).  If you are taking drop-in lessons or group classes only, practice when you can!  No judgement, seriously.

I/my child didn’t practice this week.  Should we still come to our lesson?

YES! The best thing to do is to actually just tell me that you didn’t practice.  EVERY person who takes lessons will have a week (or longer period) when they don’t practice, don’t practice enough, don’t achieve what they think they should, or something similar.  When a student hasn’t practiced, lessons are not a waste of time and we don’t just repeat our last lesson (how boring)!  There are SO MANY cool violin things and different facets of learning that we can keep moving forward regardless.  Students will progress even if they have short periods of minimal practice.

Can my other child(ren) sit in on lessons?  Will this be a distraction?

Siblings are welcome as necessary!  Almost nothing can distract me from the task at hand (I say “almost” because kids are kids)!  Children are rarely distracted by their own siblings, but think of it like you are bringing your home environment to the lesson.  Does your child do other activities at home through the baby crying, someone cooking dinner, and the sound of video games in the background without batting an eye?  They will do the same at their lesson.  Do they typically bicker with a baiting sibling, try to watch the ipad no matter which direction the screen is facing, or need to give their sibling a hug every few minutes?  They will do that at their lesson.

What is your policy on make-up lessons?

I offer a number of options for making up missed lesson time. I never want my students to have to choose between getting their lesson time or participating in another one-time event, and nobody needs more stress when they are sick.  As long as we maintain good communication I will help to ensure you get time you paid for.

How do I get started?

I love to have a quick chat with prospective students, even if you’re not sure if/when you will start, or what exactly your goals are yet.  I’m super friendly!  I also invite serious prospective students to observe a few lessons and group classes so you can see what it’s like and decide if you’re ready to move forward.

Are online lessons effective?

Online lessons are very effective.  You will get the same direct feedback and practice suggestions as lessons in person.  If you choose to try lessons online I will give you lots of suggestions to make virtual lessons as productive as possible!

What are your COVID-19 Protocols?

Precautions for in-studio lessons include required face coverings for everyone present, sanitization between each student, limited (and where required, careful) contact, and a HEPA air filtration system.  More details can be provided on request.

What are your rates?

Contact me directly for my studio policies and tuition rates.