Frequently Asked Questions

Does my child need a larger instrument?

What are the homework expectations?

Students should plan to practice 4 days per week for about 10 minutes.  

Is it possible to switch to a different strings instrument?

Yes!  Once your child knows the bow hold, bow pressure, finger pressure, etc. it is easy to switch between the different strings instruments.  Your child will NOT start over in a beginning class but will progress to the next level along with their classmates.  

Is it possible to do Band in 5th grade and then Strings again in 6th grade?

Yes!  Strings and band are both full year committments; students cannot switch mid-year but it is fine to switch at the start of a new school year.  

My 4th grader already plays violin/viola/cello/bass.  Will he/she be placed in an advanced strings class?

Every year is different.  Some years the advanced 4th graders are able to join a 5th or 6th grade class (they miss classroom instruction in these cases).  Some years we are staffed with a second strings teacher who can teach an advanced 4th grade strings class.  Some years we have two available classrooms so advanced students can work together in a neighboring classroom.  I will not know the available options for advanced 4th graders until the start of the new school year.  

Please tell me which piece they are currently working on (and it which method book) in the comments section of the registration form.  I will be in touch via email at the start of the school year to discuss class options.