FAQs
FAQs
Are there any opportunities for students younger than 5th grade?
At this time we are only offering classes for 5th-11th graders. It is possible we could expand summer class offerings in the future.
If students will miss some days, can they still participate?
Yes! Even though these classes are offered in a small group setting, instruction will be tailored to meet individual students' needs.
Can students participate at different times on different days because of other obligations?
Please indicate any scheduling needs on the registration form, and we will do our best to work with your schedule during the instructors' available times.
Can parents observe the classes?
To help minimize distractions and allow students to build independence, we ask that parents not observe regular class sessions. However, family and friends are invited to attend a brief recital on the final day of class (June 18) during the regular class time.
Can students who do not own an instrument participate?
Yes! We have some instruments that students will be able to use. There is a place on the sign up form where you can indicate that your child doesn't have their own, and that will help us plan for how many instruments we need to provide for each class of students. Students will also be able to check out 3D printed materials to take home for their practice between classes.
Are there left-handed instruments?
They do exist, but playing a string instrument is incredibly complex for both hands, therefore many left-handed musicians choose to play these instruments as they normally come. It is recommended that students try this first. If your child already owns a left-handed instrument, they can bring it to class and the instructor will modify instruction to accommodate them.
If we own a broken instrument, can the instructor fix it?
Depending on what is broken the instructor may or may not be able to fix it, but the student can bring it to class for the instructor to look at.
If we want to purchase or rent an instrument for at-home use, where can we do that?
Strait Music
Violins, violas, and guitars are available for purchase.
Violins and violas can also be rented.
Hours: Mon-Fri 10:30AM - 7:00PM, Sat: 10:00AM - 5:30PM, Sun: 12:00PM - 5:00PM
Address: 13945 Highway 183 N, Austin
Phone: (512) 918-3743
Music & Arts
Violins, violas, and guitars are available for purchase.
Violins and violas can also be rented.
Hours: Mon-Fri 11:00AM - 8:00PM, Sat: 10:00AM - 5:00PM, Sun: 12:00PM - 5:00PM
Website: www.musicandarts.com
Address: 2541 S IH-35 Suite 750, Round Rock
Phone: (512) 255-0558
Rock & Roll Rentals
Guitars are available to rent.
Hours: Mon-Fri 11:00AM - 6:00PM, Sat: 11:00AM - 5:30PM
Website: www.rocknrollrentals.com
Address: 8335 Burnet Rd, Austin
Phone: (512) 447-5305
What can parents of a beginner strings player expect?
As your child begins learning violin, viola, or guitar, it is completely normal for them to experience some mild physical discomfort during the first weeks of playing. Learning a string instrument uses muscles, coordination, and fingertip pressure that will be new for most of our students.
Beginning violin and viola students may notice:
Slightly sore fingertips on the left hand from pressing on the strings
Some stiffness in the neck, shoulder, or arm
Fatigue from holding the instrument in playing position
Temporary red marks where the instrument touches the skin
Beginning guitar students commonly experience:
Sore fingertips on the left hand from pressing strings against the frets
Development of small calluses on the fingertips
Hand fatigue from forming chords and pressing strings
These experiences are a normal part of adapting to playing these instruments, much like soreness after beginning a sport or physical activity. In most cases, the discomfort decreases steadily as strength, coordination, and technique improve.
What can parents do to support their child practicing at home?
Ask questions about what was learned in class, and ask your child to demonstrate their learning.
Encourage short, consistent practice sessions using good playing posture.
Watch out for blisters, broken skin, or pain that continues long after their practice time ends.