FAQs

1. What size instrument should my child use?

During the Parent Instrumental Night, I will be measuring beginning students for instrument sizes. I can also measure students during the school day as well. I will re-assess students throughout the year if they need to upgrade to a bigger size.

As a general rule:

Most Average Sized 4th Grade Students:

  • 1/2 size Violin

  • 12 inch Viola

  • 1/2 size Cello

  • 1/4 size Bass

Above Average 4th Grade Student:

  • 3/4 size Violin

  • 13 inch Viola

  • 3/4 size Cello

  • 1/2 size Bass

2. How often should my child practice during the week?

I will talk about practice expectations with students during their lessons. Below I have listed approximate time expectations, but these may vary according to the student's assignment.

1st year students (4th Grade): the goal is 10-20 minutes per day, 5 days a week

2nd year students (5th Grade): the goal is 20-30 minutes per day, 5 days a week

The more time your child practices, the better they will become and the more fun playing will be! :) Please visit my Practice Tips page for different ways to practice during the week.

3. What is the difference between a violin and a viola?

The violin is slightly smaller than the viola and has a higher, brighter sound. The violin strings are: G, D, A, E. Notation for the violin is written in treble clef.

The viola is slightly larger and has a lower, mellower sound similar to a cello. The viola strings are: C, G, D, A. Notation for the viola is written in alto clef.

4. When do lessons take place?

Students meet once a week for 30-minute group lessons. Lessons rotate throughout the same cycle day to ensure that students do not miss the same class each week.

5. Are there commitments outside of school?

Yes - Students participate in annual concerts! :)

4th and 5th Grade students will have one evening concert in the Spring and 5th Grade students have the opportunity to perform in the Partner's in Music orchestra, which meets at Penn State. Information will be distributed to students about this great experience!

6. Can I purchase an instrument?

We recommend renting for the benefits of repairing/replacing. In addition, string students will move up in sizes as they grow, and you will need to keep purchasing larger sizes until they reach a full-sized instrument.

Please DO NOT purchase colored instruments or AMAZON, Walmart, and eBay instruments- although physically/financially appealing, these instruments are known for poor quality of sound and difficulty staying in tune which are very important to a beginner's success.

I will be happy to answer any other questions through email at ekv12@scasd.org :)