Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of students and parents.

1. What do I do when my child's string breaks?
2. I would like to purchase an instrument for my child. Where should I go?
3. How do I choose an instrument for my child?
4. What do students wear to concerts?
5. Where is the concert and how do I get there?
6. How can I get service or return my McFadyen instrument?
7. Does my child have to stay for the entire concert?
8. Does my child need private lessons?

What do I do when my child's string breaks?

You will need to purchase a string from Fox Music on North Charleston, Music 
and Arts Centers in West Ashley, Summerville Music Center in Summerville or 
order one online from Southwest Strings or Shar.  I can put the string on 
the instrument.  It would be wise to buy an entire set of strings for your 
child to keep in his/her case as spares.

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I would like to purchase an instrument for my child. Where should I go?

You have a few options.  You may purchase an instrument locally from 
Music in Arts Centers, Fox Music, Pecknel, The Instrument Doc or from an 
individual you trust.  I recommend going this route.  Many students have 
bought instruments from online companies and many have been successful. Ask 
and I will give you info about those specific ones. However, you are not 
guaranteed to get a great instrument from an online company. Always be sure 
you can return it if you don't like it.  BEWARE of the deal that seems too 
good to be true...IT IS!!!  A $69 instrument from E-Bay may be an instrument 
of poor quality that doesn't play well or stay in tune leaving your child 
feeling very frustrated. I will be happy to inspect any instrument you 
purchase.

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How do I choose an instrument for my child?

Do your research.  There are many websites out there full of good 
information about string instruments and how to choose the right one for 
your child.  I've included one on the links page.  Also, here's a good book 
for information:  Tipbook - Violin and Viola (The Best Guide to Your 
Instument) by Hugo Pinksterboer.  There's also one for cello and just about 
every other instrument.  This book is less than $10.00 and is loaded with 
good stuff about instruments.

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What do students wear to concerts?

Concert dress is pretty simple.  6th and 7th grade students wear black 
pants, socks, shoes and belt if the pants have loops.  Students will wear 
the tuxedo shirts purchased through me.  8th grade ladies wear all black and 
young men wear a white dress shirt with a tie.  We want to look as 
professional as possible so no jeans or tennis shoes please.

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Where is the concert and how do I get there?

The concert will be held at Miles Road Baptist Church here in Summerville.  
Coming from Old Trolley...turn on to Miles Road, the church will be just 
over a mile on the right. Coming from Ladson...turn on to Miles/Jamison Rd. 
Pass the Coastal Center and the church will be less than a mile on the 
left.  From just about anywhere else...turn onto Gahagan Rd. from 17-A or 
Berlin G. PKWY, turn left onto Miles Road church is 1/4 mile on right.

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How can I get service or return my McFadyen instrument?

Sadly, this is not an easy process.  Since McFadyen closed their doors, 
there is no local company handling these instruments.  For repairs you may 
contact Pecknel in West Ashley. They are handling repairs for instruments 
under warranty.  To return an instrument go to www.bmmgreturns.com and 
follow the directions there.  For other information you could try 
www.equiant.com or 1-800-849-5021.  Also try, www.rayburnmusic.com or 1-800-
622-2837.  GOOD LUCK!!

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Does my child have to stay for the entire concert?

Yes.  I understand how busy life can be and if you have another event the 
same night, send me a note and your child may leave.  Otherwise it is very 
discouraging to groups that play later in the evening if half of the 
audience has disappeared.  Also, it will help younger students to be better 
players by observing olders students playing.

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Does my child need private lessons?

Every child can benefit from private lessons.  The one-on-one instruction 
that a student receives in a private lesson is essential if he/she wants to 
excel beyond the everyday classroom experience.  Competition for region 
orchestra and allstate orchestra is fierce.  It is rare for a student not 
taking privately to be accepted in these orchestras.  You and your child 
need to decide what goals you and they have in the orchestra and then decide 
how to get there.  Ask me and I can help you find a private teacher if you 
need one.

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