PRIVATE LESSONS 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why does the orchestra program encourage private lessons?

​Private lessons are strongly encouraged for all students, as they provide consistent one-on-one instruction for students, which is crucial at all times in a student’s development as a young musician.

Private lessons allow students to reinforce and receive personal insight on the fundamentals that will help them be successful as a musician, as well as allow them to move at an accelerated pace beyond that of the normal orchestra class. Private lessons also help our students to prepare for additional events, such as the Region/Area/All-State Orchestra audition process, Solo and Ensemble contest, etc.

Collectively, private lessons insure a solid musical foundation for our students, and encourage a diligent, progressive approach to improving musicianship and organizational skills. 

What kind of of lessons are available?

1.) Home studio lessons: These lessons take place after school hours in the private studios of the instructors.  Lessons and pricing are in accordance to the instructor's studio policy based on credentials, merit and teaching experience.  Lessons consistently tend to be focused, goal-oriented either competitively or solositically, and provide in-depth 1:1 technical help.

2.) In-school lessons: These lessons take place during the student's orchestra class once a week.  Lessons are and pricing are in accordance to RRISD policy based on education and teaching experiences.  Lessons at times  may feel rushed  or can get interrupted with fire drills and campus testing.  Lessons are geared towards preparing/finessing class lesson goals and upcoming performances.

*Scholarships are available to those with financial need. Print and sign this application form.

How can I enroll my child in the lesson program?

Contact a lessons teacher for your child's instrument to coordinate a time that fits your personal schedule.

What length of lesson is recommended for my student?

Allow the instructor the autonomy to suggest appropriate developmental lesson time increments.

How do I pay the lessons teacher?

You will pay the lessons teacher directly according to their studio policy.

When do lessons start?

Home studio lessons start at the discretion of the teacher.

In-school lessons can start as early as the first week of school, depending on how quickly you contact the IMIP teacher!

Most students that are registered the first week of school will begin around the third week of school.

How often do lessons occur? When do they occur

Lessons should occur once every week in order to build consistency in playing expectations.

Lessons may occur before school, during orchestra or possibly advisory.

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

The lessons teacher will provide that information.  

How are private lesson teachers hired?

All RRISD Private lesson faculty go through a careful screening process.

All private lessons faculty have completed an undergraduate degree in either music education or music performance. Several of our teachers perform professionally, as well as teach privately full-time.

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

​Absolutely! 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, be aware that teachers’ schedules can reach their maximum capacity or they may be unable to accommodate your requested times.