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Q.
How long does it take to learn an instrument?
A. Sorry, there is no set answer to this question. With regular
practice a basic level of playing can be accomplished in as little
as a few months. Of course for a more advanced level it will take
longer. The majority of our students continue lessons long term
because they want to constantly improve and they find the lessons
stimulating and enjoyable.
Q. Do I need a piano at home to take piano lessons?
A. Ideally, having a piano at home is the way to go, but
you can start on an electric keyboard. We recommend a keyboard with
full sized keys and a touch sensitive response. (A touch sensitive
response means the harder you hit the key the louder the sound that
results, and vise versa.)
Q. My child is interested in learning the guitar. Does he
have to begin on an acoustic or is it ok to start on an electric?
A. Since most parents began learning guitar on an acoustic
they often think that it is necessary for their kids to start that
way. In reality a child can learn how to play using either an acoustic
or an electric because the notes and the chords are the same. We
always advise the parent to get the opinion of the child if he has
one, since for some children emulating their favorite artist will
motivate them to practice more. The advantage of beginning on an
electric is that it has lighter string tension which means it will
take less strength to get a good tone. The advantage of having an
acoustic is that you can practice anywhere because you don't need
an amp. Parents don't have to worry about the electric being too
loud because most beginner amps have a headphone jack so the child
can practice without disturbing others.
Q. Do I need a full drum set to take drum lessons?
A. No, a full set is not needed to begin drum lessons. Students
can start by using a practice pad. This is a small, dinner plate
sized pad that is used for practicing basic drum rhythms. There
are child size drumsets for the young beginner that are under $200.
Often having a full set of drums, even a beginner set is a good
motivator for most kids to practice more.
Q. I don’t have any musical background or ability, can
I still help my child practice?
A.Yes, even though you are not able to play an instrument yourself,
you may be able to help your child. Simply monitoring that a child
has practiced his or her instrument is a great help. Parents are
also allowed to sit in on the child’s lesson to get an idea
of what the song is supposed to sound like, or the proper position
for playing the instrument. There is also a weekly lesson plan given
ave practiced each item on their lesson plan. If they have practiced
it they should be able to show the parent.
Q. My child is only interested in rock and roll, can he benefit
from taking lessons?
A. No matter what style of music a person is interested in,
the fundamentals of music still apply. Learning the terminology
(language) of music and developing a comprehensive knowledge of
music does not impede one’s ability to “rock out”.
It actually will allow a person to develop to a higher level of
playing no matter what style they prefer.
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