Private Lessons at Music Center
Private Lessons are an opportunity for musicians for all abilities and skills to work directly with Music Center teachers. Lessons take place in a one-on-one environment with experienced instructors that help students reach music education and performance goals through weekly sessions and guiding their at home practice.
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Weekly Lessons
Through one-on-one study, a music student receives complete attention in their lesson. However, beyond the weekly repetition of being asked to perform tasks, listen, and answer questions is the great strength of private lessons; the student is working with a teacher/mentor who helps guide their musical life. At Music Center, we believe the best learning happens through weekly private lessons. Students taking traditional lessons have the opportunity to enroll in The Royal Conservatory Certificate Program, a comprehensive and effectively sequenced program of music study and assessment.
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Getting Started
The starting point for many students is a traditional Private Lesson. Students are invited to take a 30-minute introductory lesson at a reduced lesson rate of $40. To begin the scheduling process, simply complete the Student Profile Form or call 206-526-8443 to speak with a staff member.
Lessons can begin whenever you’re ready! The academic year runs from September through June and includes a total of 37 lessons. Payment plan options are available for a small fee. Tuition for lessons is prorated for those who start after the beginning of the year. For summer session (July and August) students may sign up for a predetermined number of lessons at the regular lesson rate.
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Suzuki Academy
Students develop musical skills as they advance through the carefully laid out Suzuki repertoire for their instrument. Early pieces are learned by ear and played together in group classes and recitals. A combination of weekly Suzuki lessons and weekly or bi-monthly group classes leads students to success. Suzuki students often begin taking lessons at 3 or 4 years of age.
The Details
Who can take lessons?
Private lessons are for students of all ages! Music Center welcomes new beginners, continuing students, and those who have taken a break in their playing. No matter how long it’s been or if you’ve never picked up an instrument before, we’d like to help you experience the joy of making music.
What instruments are available for Private Lessons?
Instruction is available for the following instruments:
Strings: violin, viola, cello, guitar, bass guitar, ukulele, harp, koto
Piano: classical piano, jazz piano
Winds & brass: recorder, piccolo, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone, euphonium, tuba
Percussion: Drums
Voice: all styles
Music Theory/Composition: All levels, Royal Conservatory Certification prep available
Are there scholarships available?
Yes! Music Center believes that music education should be accessible to everyone, regardless of financial means. We offer a variety of tuition discounts and scholarships to make our programs more affordable. If you need tuition assistance to participate, please read Tuition & Scholarships for more information. Tuition Assistance awards are for either one class/ensemble or for 30-minute lessons.
What is the cost?
After your introductory lesson, tuition for weekly lessons is:
30 - Minute Weekly Lesson: $181.65/month
45 - Minute Weekly Lesson: $268.25/month
60 - Minute Weekly Lesson: $344.10/month
Tuition and fees must be paid before a student begins lessons. Families enrolling in lessons at Music Center are required to pay an annual $75 registration fee. Discounts are available for siblings and family members who enroll in lessons and for quarterly payment plans (3 payments) or payment in full.
Short term lessons are charged on a per lesson basis:
30 Minutes: $60.00/lesson
45 Minutes: $82.00/lesson
60 Minutes: $102.00/lesson
What if my student needs to miss a lesson?
No credits or refunds will be given for student absences (vacation, field trips, school music obligations, sports, illness, etc.). Teachers are NOT required nor obligated to reschedule lessons due to student absence. If you must miss a lesson (especially for illness) you should stay in contact with your teacher for additional assignments or practice ideas.
What if we need to stop lessons entirely?
If it is necessary for a student to stop taking lessons, students/parents should complete a Withdrawal Form and return it to the office. At the time the office receives the Withdrawal Form, the student is responsible to pay for four (4) more lessons (which they may attend if they choose).