Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of students and parents.
What happens if I miss my lesson?
If you miss a lesson because you are absent from school, you are excused from lessons that day. If you miss a lesson for any other reason, you can make it up another day. Come see me and we will schedule a time for you to make up your lesson.Back to Top
What happens if I miss band rehearsal?
If you miss a band rehearsal a note will be sent home. After three unexcused absences, students are automatically removed from the band program.Back to Top
NYSSMA stands for New York State School Music Association and is most well known for its annual solo festival where students from all over the state are invited to perform a piece of music in front of a judge. This experience is a great opportunity for individual excellence in musical performance. There are six levels of difficulty that students can perform at. Each student receives a rating based on the quality of their performance at their level. Pieces to be performed must be selected from the NYSSMA manual. One is the lowest level and Six is the highest. Students must perform from an original copy (photocopies are not acceptable) that they have purchased. Most solos come with a piano part that the judge can read from. I feel it is a very valuable life experience, and encourage all of my students to participate. In addition to making great progress on their instruments, students acquire other valuable life skills, such as: Goal setting. By preparing a solo over a period of about three months, students learn to set a long term goal and to reach that goal through setting and meeting a series of short-term goals. Independent learning. Students do a lot of the work and learning independently, with help from myself and/or a private music teacher. Self evaluation. Students must learn to judge themselves critically and make corrections on there own. They develop their own standards and expectations for themselves. Dealing with nerves. Performing alone for a judge can be nerve- racking and the experience builds character. Difficult challenges later in life can be a little easier having had yearly experiences at NYSSMA.Back to Top
What about private instruction?
I highly recommend private instruction with a qualified teacher. One-on-one instruction is a really great way to grow and develop as a musician. Please call the music office for recommendations of private teachers who teach your instrument.Back to Top
What are the pros and cons of renting vs. buying your own instrument?
Renting and instrument is great, but you rarely have a choice in what you are getting. A few years of renting could equal the cost of a very nice instrument. Most students have more success and enjoy playing music on a new instrument that is their own. Quality instruments maintain their value! If you decide to buy an instrument, please let me know. There are many things to consider.Back to Top