Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of students and parents.
No. You do have to play a jury for the department head, myself, and sometimes another faculty member. This involves performing materials that we have studied during the semester in which the jury takes place. Since I have been teaching the violin studio students who have participated in our semester studio recitals have had their jury requirement waived. That's a nice incentive for overcoming any fears of public performance.Back to Top
Am I required to perform in public?
No. I encourage all students to take part in our many public performance opportunities but I do realize that most students in the studio are not majoring in music and if the thought of a public performance is going to create unnecessary stress in your life then you will not be forced to perform against your will. That being said you might want to re-read answer #1...Back to Top
Your grade is based on my assessment of your progress in my studio. My expectation for each student is different and no two students are ever compared in the process of determining individual grades. I expect each student to work to their best potential while recognizing that my course usually only amounts to an "enrichment" course. Playing and learning music should be an enjoyable endeavor and I always seek to make it such. I try to create a stress free environment in which my students can learn and my course of instruction is tailor made to each student. Lastly...I don't have any desire to lower your GPA because of violin lessons. This is a fairly difficult course to mess up in...you'd really have to work at it but that doesn't mean I'm a pushover either. Just do your best- that's all that is expected.Back to Top
Do I need any experience to take this course?
Yes. This is not a course for beginning students. Students entering the studio should have at least a middle school level (3rd position and vibrato) comprehension of the technique needed for playing the violin.Back to Top
What materials do I need to supply?
You will need to supply your own instrument and the materials necessary to perform on it. Some music may also be required however I make copies of some materials available to help you contain the cost of the lessons. We also have a marvelous music library on campus that you can make use of.Back to Top
As much as is needed to get the work done. I try to keep the amount of materials you are studying to a manageable level. The amount of time necessary for each student to practice varies with the individual and that person's ability to use their practice time to the greatest advantage.Back to Top
Yes. If you cancel well enough in advance with a reasonable excuse I will do my best to find a make-up time for the missed lesson. Occasionally, due to my busy symphony schedule, I may need to reschedule a lesson but this doesn't happen very often.Back to Top
If I leave the studio for a semester can I return at a later date?
Of course. I understand that course schedules and graduation requirements sometimes necessitate a break from the luxury of violin lessons (for non- majors/minors). Just remember to speak with the Music Department and myself so that we know that you wish to return and we will do our best to see that you have a space in the studio schedule.Back to Top
Call me Craig. You are young adults now and only the little kids who come to my house for lessons have to call me Mr. Sorgi. Don't call me professor as that is not a title that has been conferred on me...not yet. :)Back to Top