Questions about lessons

We teach students from age eight, and adults of any age. For a younger child, ask us about a placement visit and we will talk it through with you.

Lessons are 30, 45 or 60 minutes. Length depends on the student's age and level and what the week's work needs, and your teacher will suggest one.

Not at first. Cellos and violas come in sizes, and a student outgrows a size. Ask your teacher before you buy or rent. We rent cellos and violas in the sizes students need.

At a placement visit a teacher listens to you play, or to you say what you hope to learn, and we match you by instrument, level and the days you can come.

Yes. A parent is welcome to sit in on any lesson, and many do for the first few weeks. There is a bench for waiting outside every lesson room.

A short first meeting. You play or talk, we listen, and a teacher suggests a level and a weekly time. You do not need to prepare a piece.

No. Concerts and the studio recital are a choice. Students in a Saturday ensemble play in the ensemble concerts with their group.

Tell your teacher a day ahead and the time can often move. A lesson the teacher misses is made up within the month. Saturday ensembles rehearse together, so they are not made up.

Yes. Adult students learn at any level, in lessons on weekday evenings or in the Saturday adult strings group. Many of them have not touched an instrument in years.

A group of cellists and violists who rehearse together on Saturday mornings, by level, with a piano part. Players join the group that fits their level.