FAQ's (frequently asked questions)
click on question to get an answer
- How do I help my child (I know nothing about music) ?
- How much are lessons?
- How many lessons does it take to learn to play?
- Who is my child's teacher ?
- How can I arrange a "rent to purchase" plan?
- When is the next concert ?
How do I help my child ?
First of all, talk to the teacher, look at the assignments in the music book. Call for an appointment (no charge with "In-School Music Education Program) and sit in on a lesson with a teacher, we will explain what can be expected. See "Practice Suggestions"
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How many lessons does it take to learn to play an instrument?
This is a "loaded question and a "tricky" answer. Learning and playing music for me is "a way of life". The answer lies "within" yourself. Age, commitment, study time, practice, are all important factors. If you enjoy learning, then you may always be satisfied and you may always seek more knowledge. To answer this quickly... You should be able to learn a very easy song in 2 or 3 lessons. Try it... You may like it!
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Who is my child's teacher ?
Teacher credentials are available a Music House and are kept confidential. Please call and arrange to meet the teacher. If your child studies at school only, perhaps the teacher also teaches privately. call 773.761.3770
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How can I arrange a "rent to purchase" plan ?
If you are currently renting an instrument from Music House, Inc., your already accruing credit up to nine months. See "Rental Credit"
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When is the next concert ?
Music House, Inc. plans concerts at each host school in the spring. Some schools have a performance for the holidays in December. Saturday Classes have their own performances at the Holidays, in February and also in the spring. At least 5 recitals are held each spring. See "events".
Practice suggestions for the Music Student
This list of practice suggestions is meant for both the student and the parent. There is no way in which we can underestimate the importance of good practice habits. The music student learns what (and how) to practice in the lesson, and how to play the instrument by practicing. there is no other way to learn to play an instrument.
1. Good lighting either over your shoulder or directly above. Don't face the light or a window with outdoor lights.
2. Quiet surroundings with no playmates, siblings, TV, or radio nearby.
3. Use a good practice instrument kept in good condition and in tune. You'll get better results.
4. Comfortable, upright posture. Poor posture is tiring and restricts your breathing.
5. Keep your instrument in plain sight so that you won't forget to practice.
6. Put up photos, and articles of famous musicians t o inspire you.
7. Practice with a friend once in a while. You can learn from other students.
8. Put a reminder on your mirror with the word "practice" on it.
9. Keep a practice routine:
a. schedule a time each day for yourself (1/2 hour minimum) b. begin with exercises and/or scales c. Work on shorter, more difficult passages and phrases of the assigned "song". Repetition is essential and the most important aspect of practicing, learning and memorization! d. End a practice session on a "high note"! Review songs that you know and try playing it better, louder, softer, with indicated dynamics (if applicable), faster, etc.
9. 9. Change your practice routine if it becomes boring.
10. Make your next lesson the goal for completing assignments
11. Spend a lot of time on a small amount of material. A small amount of time on a lot of music does not accomplish as much as "concentrating" on a problem.
12. Practice in front of a mirror, in front of family, friends as much as possible.
13. Praise your child, your students, classmates and yourself for all musical endeavors!
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Need more information? See "REPORTS"
Sheet Music Direct-Listen first before downloading sheet music for your instrument, in your key!
or Print at Music House! Click below!
