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The following are the most frequently
asked questions. If you have a question that is not listed here, please
contact us at 951-698-9891 for assistance.
Q. How long does it take to learn an instrument?
A. Sorry, there is no set answer to this question. With regular practice a basic level of playing can be accomplished in as little as a few months. Of course for a more advanced level it will take longer. The majority of our students continue lessons long term because they want to constantly improve and they find the lessons stimulating and enjoyable.
Q. Do I need a piano at home to take piano lessons?
A. Ideally, having a piano at home is the way to go, but you can start on an electric keyboard. We recommend a keyboard with full sized keys and a touch sensitive response. (A touch sensitive response means the harder you hit the key the louder the sound that results, and vise versa.)
Q. My child is interested in learning the guitar. Does he have to begin on an acoustic or is it ok to start on an electric?
A. Since most parents began learning guitar on an acoustic they often think that it is necessary for their kids to start that way. In reality a child can learn how to play using either an acoustic or an electric because the notes and the chords are the same. We always advise the parent to get the opinion of the child if he has one, since for some children emulating their favorite artist will motivate them to practice more. The advantage of beginning on an electric is that it has lighter string tension which means it will take less strength to get a good tone. The advantage of having an acoustic is that you can practice anywhere because you don't need an amp. Parents don't have to worry about the electric being too loud because most beginner amps have a headphone jack so the child can practice without disturbing others.
Q. Do I need a full drum set to take drum lessons?
A. No, a full set is not needed to begin drum lessons. Students can start by using a practice pad. This is a small, dinner plate sized pad that is used for practicing basic drum rhythms. There are child size drumsets for the young beginner that are under $200. Often having a full set of drums, even a beginner set is a good motivator for most kids to practice more.
Q. I don’t have any musical background or ability, can I still help my child practice?
A.Yes, even though you are not able to play an instrument yourself, you may be able to help your child. Simply monitoring that a child has practiced his or her instrument is a great help. Parents are also allowed to sit in on the child’s lesson to get an idea of what the song is supposed to sound like, or the proper position for playing the instrument. There is also a weekly lesson plan given to each student which outlines what they are learning each week. Parents are encouraged to ask the child if they have practiced each item on their lesson plan. If they have practiced it they should be able to show the parent.
Q. My child is only interested in rock and roll, can he benefit from taking lessons?
A. No matter what style of music a person is interested in, the fundamentals of music still apply. Learning the terminology (language) of music and developing a comprehensive knowledge of music does not impede one’s ability to “rock out”. It actually will allow a person to develop to a higher level of playing no matter what style they prefer.
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