All HMS band students are strongly encouraged to be enrolled in private lessons on their instrument. Research consistently indicates that one of the greatest factors toward student success on their instrument is individualized playing time and individualized specific feedback. While this is a huge priority in all HMS band classes, the opportunity for a student to receive one-on-one, individualized instruction by a professional on their specific instrument on a weekly basis plays a tremendous role in the student's individual success. All lessons are specifically tailored to that individual student giving them an added opportunity for growth and success on their instrument.

1. ALL HMS band students are STRONGLY ENCOURAGED to take individualized private lessons on their instrument.

2. All HMS Private Lesson Instructors are screened and approved by the school district.

3. Lessons will occur on a weekly basis, typically during the student's band class period.

4. Payments are made directly to the lesson teachers, not the band directors.

Lesson rates are approximately $18-30 per lesson, depending on the instructor's experience and education level, and the length of the student's lesson (25 minutes, 30 minutes, or 45 minutes)

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I enroll my child in the lesson program?

To enroll your child in private lessons, please click here to access the Private Lessons Registration Form Link.

When and where do lessons occur?

Most lessons will be scheduled to be during the student's band class period, and will take place in one of the practice rooms at the HMS Band Hall. If necessary, lessons may occur before school or after school.

How often do lessons occur?

Lessons occur once every week. It is not recommended to take lessons at a different frequency (e.g. once a month, every other week, etc.).

How do I pick a day/time for my lesson?

After you register for lessons, the private lesson instructor will reach out to you to set up your child's weekly lesson time. Most of our instructors teach at other schools besides HMS, so they will let you know what their schedule is and will help you select the best time for your child.

What length of lesson is recommended for my student?

For most students, especially beginner students, we recommend 30 minutes, or half of a class period. Older students that are typically working on more advanced concepts/music may benefit from a longer lesson time each week.

Will my child miss classroom instruction if they take lessons during their band class?

Students enrolled in private lessons during their band class will miss half of their band class one day per week. Since lessons are done in the practice rooms in the band facility, it is a very quick transition in and out of class. The benefit of the lesson for half of the class greatly exceeds the loss of the missed class time, and our lesson teachers will be reinforcing the things we are working on in class as well.

How do I pay the lessons teacher?

You will pay the lessons teacher directly. They will inform you of their rate (based on education and years of experience) and preferred payment method via email prior to the start of lessons.

When do lessons start?

Lessons can start as early as the first week of school, depending on how quickly your registration is received. As soon as we have received your registration information and your lesson is scheduled, lessons can begin. Most students that are registered the first week of school will begin around the third week of school.

How are private lesson teachers hired?

Private lesson instructors go through a careful screening process with the HMS band directors. We interview qualified candidates in order to ensure our students will receive consistent instruction that aligns with the pedagogy of the band staff. All of our private lesson instructors are professional teachers and performers on the instrument that they teach. We select our private lesson instructors based on their knowledge of their instrument, their teaching capabilities, and most importantly, their ability to communicate and interact with our students in a positive and professional manner.

All private lesson instructors are onboarded as Hutto ISD contractors, agree to abide by all district guidelines and policies, and undergo an annual criminal background check.

Can I enroll my child later (not at the beginning of the school year)?

​You are welcome to enroll your child in private lessons at any point in the year, however waiting to enroll your student for any reason is not recommended. Students will benefit from private lesson instruction at all points of the year, regardless of the level they are at on their instrument. The advantage to enrolling at the beginning of the school year is convenience in scheduling your lesson time. Private lesson teachers begin the school year with greater flexibility in their own schedules, making it easier to fit your child into your requested times. You are ALWAYS able to enroll your child at a later date; however, please be advised that teachers’ schedules can reach their maximum capacity or they may be unable to accommodate your requested times.

Additional Questions?

Please contact Mr. Acuff if you have any questions regarding private lessons at brent.acuff@huttoisd.net.