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Private
lessons may be available to young students that are truly interested
themselves in the instrument, and can make effort and sacrifices
to become a musician. Parents must also be dedicated - driving,
scheduling lessons and rehearsals, making regular practice happen,
paying on time...
Both the student and
parent must be interested in the instrument. If you or your student
is not dedicated enough for this level of instruction, but still
wants private lessons or an orchestra, let me know! I will try
to find an appropriate teacher or organization. Many "hobbyist"
students have a great time and are well-respected in the youth
orchestras they participate in. |
| The
Process |
| If you
and your child are serious about lessons, here's the scoop. Private
lessons occur once or twice a week. Students are encouraged to join
New Conservatory of Dallas
which rehearses Saturday mornings during the school year. Daily
practice of at least one hour, depending on level, is required.
If you don't have an instrument, inform the teacher before you do
anything. Student violins in different sizes (1/16 to full) may
cost $300 to $1,000+ or can be rented. Every teacher has their favorite
source of strings and repair. |
| What
do you get out of all this? |
| For you,
a thinner wallet. But your kid gets greater self-esteem, discipline
that can be applied to other subjects, more brain activity (e.g.
"Mozart effect"), precision, a knowledge of classical
music and more importantly friends that have similar interests!
Better than watching TV. And cheaper than bailing them out of trouble
later. |
| Choosing
a teacher |
How
does one choose a teacher? Don't go by price alone! You can find
cheaper teachers, but you get what you pay for. Every teacher
has her specialties and strengths. Not every good player can teach.
It takes pedagogical training to teach well. Chemistry and personality
must match. Most teachers have expertise at a certain level or
age student. When the student "outgrows" them, they
pass the student onto a different teacher.
Word-of-mouth and
referrals from school music teachers are how most teachers get
their students. Not a yellow page ad or music stores! |
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