Children and adults at any skill level may register for private instruction for any band or orchestral instrument, piano, voice, classical guitar, organ, harp, and composition. Curriculum for individual lessons is tailored specifically to the needs of each student. Since the study of a musical instrument is based upon a steady progression of both intellectual and physical skills, it is strongly recommended that students enroll for an entire semester or year. 

Each full semester enrollment includes a private lesson and a weekly Musicianship Class, for students in grades 1-12. Our progressive and comprehensive class curriculum reinforces the basic skills needed for music study including theory, ear-training, sight singing, and the exploration of various composers and styles of music. During the spring semester, students use skills learned to compose their own music for possible performance on a spring recital. Classes are taught in a fun atmosphere that encourages students to use their creative abilities. Please refer to the Group Classes section for placement dates and more information.

All students are responsible for obtaining their own instruments and must have an instrument before lessons begin. Piano students must have access to a piano on a daily basis. Organ students must have access to an organ with a full 32-note pedal board, on a daily basis. In addition, students are expected to purchase any music recommended by the instructor.

When to Start?

Many parents ask for guidelines regarding when to begin formal music instruction. Our String Project violin program accepts students from the age of 4. Generally, 1st or 2nd grade is a good time to begin traditional instruction on piano, violin, cello or guitar. By grades 5-6, most students are ready to begin study of wind, brass or percussion instruments, viola or harp. Voice, string bass, organ and composition instruction should generally wait until the teenage years. There are, of course, exceptions to all guidelines.

Students enrolled in the Music Academy receive much more than a weekly lesson. All students are actively encouraged to expand their musical horizons by participating in as many Academy and community experiences as possible, many of which are completely free of charge. Private instruction Instructional Fee(s) at the Academy includes:

• Weekly private lesson
• Musicianship Class
• Access to a faculty of carefully selected professional or student musicians and educators
• Evaluation at the end of each academic year
• Numerous recital opportunities including recitals in Shuck Recital Hall at the River Campus
• Community service performances
• A place to meet and make friends with other music students in a supportive environment