Frequently Asked Questions
General Program Questions
What grades are eligible for the program?
Our program welcomes students from Kindergarten through 8th grade, regardless of prior musical experience. Every child is encouraged to explore and grow at their own pace.
What will students learn?
Our orchestra curriculum introduces students to the fundamentals of rhythm, harmony, and note reading through familiar and engaging songs. Students will develop age-appropriate skills on their chosen instrument, learn to perform with their peers in an ensemble, and build confidence as musicians. The year culminates in a concert where students showcase their progress, leaving with a sense of accomplishment. Our goal is for every child to enjoy the journey and feel successful!
When and where are the classes held?
Classes are held after school on a designated day each week. Please refer to your school’s registration page for specific dates. Once enrollment is complete, the final class schedule will be shared with families before the first lesson.
Is there a final performance?
Yes, our all of our programs culminate in a Spring Concert held in April, May, or June. Please check your school’s registration page for exact dates.
Can I volunteer to get a discount?
Yes, a parent volunteer who provides weekly administrative assistance can receive a full tuition waiver and free instrument rental. Please see your school’s registration page for more details about how to become an after school orchestra volunteer!
What is the refund policy?
Our Orchestra and Piano Workshop Programs are separate, year-long commitments. To maintain program stability and financial viability throughout the school year, refunds are only available within the first three weeks of classes. Withdrawals during this period will receive a full tuition refund. Additionally, if you rented an instrument through The Instrument Place, a full refund will be provided once the instrument is returned.
Can a student enroll in both programs?
Yes! You can absolutely participate in both programs, and we highly encourage it! Enrolling in both our Orchestra and Piano Workshop programs offers a well-rounded, engaging music education that blends the collaboration and performance confidence of ensemble playing with the individual focus and foundational skills of piano study. Each program concludes with its own year-end performance, and families who choose this bundle receive a 30% discount on Piano Workshop as a thank-you for committing to both.
My child is in kindergarten or 1st grade. How will they get to and from their music class after school?
Our youngest musicians are always treated like VIPs because their safety and comfort are our top priorities. To ensure their safety and comfort, we personally escort all Kindergarten and 1st Grade students directly from their classroom or aftercare group to music class right after school. When class ends, students are released only to a parent or guardian for immediate pickup. If your child is enrolled in an aftercare program such as STAR, we will escort them right back to their group so they are safely accounted for at all times. We are proud to be part of your child’s learning journey in a caring, trusted community.
If my child is in a later class, how will they know when to go to music class?
Parent volunteers and staff are on campus each week to assist students in getting to and from their music classes on time. Older students typically learn the routine quickly, but we are always available to help as needed. We also recommend that students wear alarm watches to remind them when it’s time to gather their instrument and head to class.
Is practice required?
We don’t insist on or pressure students to practice, especially our youngest learners. Our approach focuses on creating a positive and enjoyable experience with music. That said, even a small amount of practice – just 5 to 10 minutes daily or 15 minutes a few times a week – can make a meaningful difference in your child’s progress and makes playing the instrument feel more natural over time.
Tips:
Any time spent playing, whether it’s experimenting with sounds, holding the instrument, or trying simple rhythms, is valuable. Encouraging your child to “perform” for you or create their own songs can make practicing fun and engaging. Every moment your child spends exploring their instrument helps build confidence and strengthens their musical skills over time.
Online support:
To support families, our online Class Portal includes a built-in practice timer and log, weekly class recaps, practice tips, downloadable sheet music, and instructional videos. These resources make it easy and enjoyable for students to stay motivated and connected to what they’re learning.
Is there an absence policy or makeup classes offered?
Regular attendance is vital for your child’s success in our year-long program. With a limited number of weekly classes, each session builds on the last and is essential for steady progress. We understand that occasional absences happen, but please note that if a student accumulates three or more unexcused absences, we may need to reconsider their enrollment. This ensures the best experience for all participants, as missing multiple classes can cause a student to fall significantly behind their peers.
Can my child enroll in a program and request to be with friends?
Yes, we highly encourage students to enroll with their friends whenever possible! Learning alongside friends can boost confidence, increase motivation, and make the experience more enjoyable. Our goal is to create supportive environments where every student feels comfortable and inspired to grow musically.
Orchestra Registration Questions
What instruments are available?
The selection of instruments available is tailored to each student’s grade level, ensuring an age-appropriate and rewarding musical experience.
- Kindergarten and First graders may choose the violin (Violins are sized to fit each individual student.)
- Second graders may choose the violin, flute, clarinet, trumpet, or ukulele.
- Third graders may choose the violin, cello, flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, or ukulele
- Fourth and Fifth graders may choose the violin, cello, flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, trombone, or ukulele
How do we get an instrument?
The program has partnered with “The Instrument Place” for discounted rentals and purchases.
All prices from our supplier include FREE DELIVERY to school at the first lesson and pick up at the end of the program following the year-end concert. Visit The Instrument Place to place your order.
How do we get a piano?
If you’re enrolling in the piano class it is important to select a keyboard that is lightweight for easy transport to and from school. We’ve selected some portable keyboard options below that are even lighter than a trumpet or violin! Click the images below to order on Amazon with fast Prime delivery. 32, 37, and 44 key models are sufficient for class while remaining ultra portable.
**IMPORTANT: Please select a keyboard that has battery power or that can be fully-charged for independent use in class. Disposable Battery or Rechargeable Battery Power is required for class.
Where and when will my child's music class take place?
All orchestra classes take place weekly on campus in small-group settings, with each session lasting 35–40 minutes. Kindergarten and 1st grade students are always scheduled first and are escorted directly to their music class immediately after the dismissal bell. Following these early classes, students in grades 2–5 attend their sessions in consecutive time blocks throughout the afternoon. Classes are grouped by age, instrument type, and skill level to ensure appropriate pacing and meaningful peer collaboration.
What should my child do if they forget to bring their instrument to school for orchestra?
If your child forgets their instrument, they should still attend class. We often have loaner instruments available or may be able to arrange for them to share with another student. If you realize during the school day, feel free to email us and we’ll do our best to provide a loaner.
How are the orchestra classes grouped together?
Classes are organized based on age, instrument, and skill level to provide the best learning experience and encourage positive peer interaction. Parents are encouraged to contact us with any information that might help us place their child in the most suitable class.
Can my child change classes throughout the year if they need to progress slower or faster compared to the pace of their class?
Yes, we can occasionally accommodate class changes during the year if a student needs to progress at a different pace. Changes depend on space availability and teacher approval. Additionally, we can provide more challenging parts or material within the current class. For students who are highly motivated or accelerated, private lessons outside the school program are also available to complement group instruction.
Piano Workshop Registration Questions
(Separate day from Orchestra)
Do I need a piano?
If you are registering for the Piano Workshop Program, Keyboards will be provided for use in class ONLY during the weekly piano lessons. We recommend obtaining a keyboard for home practice if you do not already have a piano or keyboard at home.
What grades are eligible for the program?
Our program welcomes students from Kindergarten through 8th grade, regardless of prior musical experience. Every child is encouraged to explore and grow at their own pace.
Will my child get individual attention?
Although the piano classes are held in a group format, each session is structured to give students dedicated practice time and one-on-one attention from the instructor. There will also be opportunities to play together as a group and collaborate on a musical theme or idea.
Can my child change classes throughout the year if they need to progress slower or faster compared to the pace of their class?
Yes, we can occasionally accommodate class changes during the year if a student needs to progress at a different pace. Changes depend on space availability and approval from the teacher and music director. Additionally, we can provide more challenging parts or material within their current class. For students who are highly motivated or accelerated, private lessons outside the school program are also available to complement group instruction.