FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. I’m not musical. How can I help my child when they practice?
A: Most people are more musical than they think! We encourage parents to sit in on their child’s lessons so they can observe what he or she is doing. Our teachers are happy to give parents helpful tips (such as “this is what correct hand position looks like”) to reinforce good technique at home. Even without formal study, most people can recognize when a student is improving in tone, pitch accuracy or rhythm. Encouragement is always helpful.
Q: What happens during lessons?
A: Since all lessons are individual, each lesson will be structured a little differently. Most lessons will start out with a warm-up exercise and/or a review of the last assignment. Students are encouraged to talk to their instructor about any issues they may have had in practicing or about any upcoming events they need to prepare for (such as a scale test in their school band class or an audition for a musical). After working through a student’s assignment, teachers will usually introduce the next assignment and thoroughly explain any new skills or concepts.
Q: Do I need my own instrument? (And do I actually have to buy a piano for piano lessons?)
A: Yes, you do need an instrument to use for lessons and practicing, but you don’t need to make a big investment right away. It’s a good idea to rent at first, and many places offer rent-to-own agreements with free repairs included. We provide state-of-the-art digital pianos at school to use during lessons, and piano students can practice at home on an electronic keyboard with standard-sized keys. If you want to rent or purchase an actual piano, Gist Piano Center is an excellent place to look. Guitars are available for rent at the Doo-Wop Shop for a very reasonable rate. Brass, woodwind and string instruments are available to rent at Mel Owen Music. Voice students must supply their own instruments, of course.
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