Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of
students and parents.
- Is there a final exam?
- Am I required to perform in public?
- How is my grade determined?
- Do I need any experience to take this course?
- What materials do I need to supply?
- How much should I practice?
- Can I reschedule lessons?
- If I leave the studio for a semester can I return at a later date?
- What do we call you?
Is there a final exam?
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.
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...
How is my grade determined?
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.
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.
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.
How much should I practice?
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.
Can I reschedule lessons?
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.
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.
What do we call you?
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. :)
