Private Lessons
As students progress to the next level, the music and skills required of student musicians becomes more challenging. Private lessons help students to advance their skills and abilities. A list of private instructors, organized by instrument, is available from Mrs. Mihalko.
What are the benefits of taking private lessons?
How do I find the right teacher?
What questions do I ask a prospective teacher?
What to expect from private lessons:
What are the benefits of taking private lessons?
- One-on-one instruction
- Students who need more of a challenge can move forward with their technical development
- Students who need help can get individualized instruction
- Students are able to progress and develop their skills at a faster pace
- Extra motivation to practice
- Increased success rates which lead to increased confidence, motivation, and enjoyment of their instrument
How do I find the right teacher?
- Ask for a recommendation from Mrs. Mihalko
- Consult with friends, family, or others who are acquainted with teachers in the community
- Arrange to meet with, or have a trial lesson with, the prospective teacher to make sure it is a good fit
- Ask permission to attend a recital of the prospective teacher's students
What questions do I ask a prospective teacher?
- What is your professional and educational experience in music/on your instrument?
- What age groups do you teach?
- What materials do you use?
- Are you a Suzuki method teacher? (to learn more about the Suzuki method, visit the Suzuki Association of Americas website)
- What kind of music do you teach? (traditional/classical, fiddle, jazz, blues)
- Do you offer group lessons?
- Do you require students to perform in studio recitals throughout the year?
- What do you expect of your students and parents?
What to expect from private lessons:
- Private lessons are usually 30, 45, or 60 minutes. The younger the student, the shorter the lesson.
- Parents should sit in on lessons in order to understand what the student is working on and how they should be practicing at home. With older students it is up to the student and parent whether or not the parent sits in on the lessons, though some teachers may require it.
- On average, private lessons are $25-30 per half hour, but prices can vary widely.
- Private lessons are almost always held at the teacher's house.
- Lessons are held once a week.
- Developmentally appropriate materials (not too challenging, not too easy)