Private Lessons
Why Take Clarinet Lessons?
Students of all ages and levels of experience benefit greatly from individualized one-on-one instruction. Here are a few reasons why:
1.) Tutoring: Being a part of a group---such as a school band--- is no fun for a student whom feels like he or she is being left behind or is unable to fully participate and contribute. In a band class full of young musicians, it is difficult if not impossible for even the best band director to provide enough individual attention to a struggling student. In this scenario, private lessons provide tutoring for a student who needs help "catching up." If your child is struggling in band class, weekly private lessons provide one-on-one assistance in practicing concert music and preparing for playing tests while targeting weaknesses in his or her playing.
2.) To Excel: Both the struggling student and the student who already excels in music will benefit equally from private lessons (if they practice, of course). More advanced students often crave a challenge, and private lessons are an excellent way to supplement and go beyond the musical instruction he or she is already receiving at school. If your student is enthusiastic about music and is interested in auditioning for All-District, State, and/ or County Honors Bands or entering competitions, studying privately will give your student the opportunity to acquire the skills they need to be successful in these situations. If your child aspires to play professionally and/ or major in music in college, then private lessons are a necessity. Music is a competitive field, and a young musician needs the advantage of regular, individualized instruction and mentoring from an experienced professional in order to make the dream a reality.
3.) To Play Again After 30 Years: Playing an instrument relieves stress by focusing our attention, providing physical exercise, creating opportunities for us to connect with others in our community, and simply by reminding us to appreciate something beautiful. If you have an old clarinet collecting dust someplace in your closet or up in the attic, private lessons are a great way to get back into playing. Adults and young people alike enjoy playing in church "praise bands" and community bands and orchestras, or in smaller chamber ensembles such as clarinet quartets or woodwind trios. Music makes us all happier, healthier people!
| Length of Weekly Lesson | Rate | Monthly Tuition* |
| 30 Minutes** | $20.00 | $80.00 |
| 45 Minutes | $30.00 | $120.00 |
| 60 Minutes | $40.00 | $160.00 |
** 30-minute lessons are strongly recommended for middle-school students with less than 2 yrs. playing experience.
Required Materials
1.) A student or professional Bb clarinet (or bass clarinet, in some cases) that is in good working condition. Any bent keys, swollen or missing pads, and missing screws should be taken care of before the first lesson. The mouthpiece tip and facing (anywhere the reed comes in contact) should be free of chips and deep scratches.
2.) A minimum of four working reeds in the appropriate strength. (Beginners: Rico strength 2 or 2.5, Vandoren strength 2.) Vandoren reeds are strongly recommended for all students.
3.) Bring a prepared solo or etude to your first lesson (except for beginners). If you have never studied clarinet etudes or solo repertoire, prepare something from your band method book or concert music instead.
4.) Subdividing metronome*
5.) Chromatic tuner*
6.) Appropriate etude/method books and solo literature*
*Students may wait until after the first lesson to purchase these items. Specific recommendations will be made to each student based on an initial assessment of his or her playing and individual goals.
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