Frequently Asked Questions
If you do not see your question answered below, please contact us and we will get back to you at our earliest availability.
What are the lesson rates?
Please reach out to us for individual teacher’s lesson rates.
Do you accept adults into the studio?
No, at this time we are not accepting any adult students.
What is the lesson availability?
Lessons are held regularly on a weekly basis depending on each instructor’s availability. Please note that biweekly or monthly lessons will not be accommodated.
Is there a studio policy?
Yes, please reach out to us to request the studio policy.
How do I schedule my first lesson?
Please call, text, or email us to schedule your consultation free of charge. We will meet with you and your child to determine what you will need for lessons as well as discuss any special circumstances/accommodations to ensure a positive and enriching learning experience.
At what age should my child start playing an instrument?
Your child may start lessons as early as 3 years old, however, we recommend waiting until the child is at least 5 years old, as this gives them the maturity, coordination, and fine motor skills to progress more quickly while still gaining the neurological benefits of learning an instrument at a young age.
We accept students as young as 5 years old and recommend not waiting until the school program to get started.
Where should I get my instrument?
If you are interested in renting locally, Haggerty's Musicworks offers a great selection of rental instruments. Other online rental/buying options include SharMusic and JohnsonString. We encourage parents not to rent/purchase instruments without first consulting the teacher.
What sort of commitment is expected from the parents?
We strongly recommend all students under the age of 14 to be accompanied by their parents to all lessons.
As young students are not always self-motivated, we ask that parents set a schedule for their child that includes daily practice as part of their everyday routine. The student's practice can be divided into 2 or 3 shorter time blocks in order to have the student practice more without losing focus (eg. before breakfast, after school, or before dinner.)
What is the typical length for private lessons?
All lessons are held weekly and depend on the age and level of the student. Having regular weekly lessons sets the student up for success, simultaneously building responsibility, accountability, and discipline. Missing lessons leads to frustration and learning gaps on the student's part and is detrimental to their overall enthusiasm and commitment to learning.
For beginning students, we find that 30 minutes is adequate for providing them with a solid foundation. However, as they progress, parents should expect the lesson duration to increase to a minimum of 45 minutes. For some students, we find that 2 shorter lessons per week is the most beneficial. (See the expected lesson length timetable below*)
In the first 6-12 Months: 30/45 min
1st-2nd Year: 45/60 min
3rd Year+: 60/90 min
*Lesson length recommendations may vary based on what your teacher believes to be in the best interest of the child.
Are there performance opportunities for my child?
Absolutely, performance opportunities are vital to the the students’ success and comfort with their instrument. All students with concert-ready repertoire will have opportunities to perform through studio concerts as well as occasional outreach concerts scheduled by the Professional Violin Studio. Two Studio Performance Classes will be held throughout the year with opportunities to make music with their peers as well as perform with piano accompaniment. Attendance at studio-organized events is expected from all students. Please note that virtual students will have unique accommodations and must be discussed with your instructor.
Where are the lessons held?
Lessons and studio performance classes are held at our beautiful home studio in Southwest Rapid City or virtually. Summer lessons will take place at our summer address location in Rapid City.