What is Mr. D’s Music School education system?

Designed to meet the specific needs and developmental phases of every age group, Mr. D’s Music School programs develop the comprehensive musical capability of every student in an environment that motivates a love of music and a lifetime of active music participation.

What makes Mr. D’s Music School shine out?

Our curriculum is extensive. When it comes to our piano lessons, students sing solfege, play the keyboard, sing songs with lyrics, move to music, and play rhythm and keyboard ensembles participate in music appreciation activities.

They develop diverse musical skills without prematurely focusing on the instrument or style. This approach lets students select their future musical path when they are more mentally and physically grown-up. Our students are often leaders in the school orchestra, band, and other choir programs.

Why group lessons?

Students of every age gain better knowledge in groups because of the following factors:

• Comprehensive learning – Group lessons are an extremely effective approach to attain musical training. Students sing with others and perform in a variety of types of ensembles.
• Peer influence – In a group, there’s a peer inspiration such that a student will wish to perform well in front of and with his or her peers. The experience of performing in front of a friendly audience regularly and frequently will provide the student confidence and a feeling of accomplishment.
• It takes the pressure off – In a group, the pressure is not constantly on one individual. Consequently, music skills can be nurtured in a relaxed and friendly environment helpful to learning.

Are instructors qualified?

Yes, every instructor at Mr. D’s Music School in Folsom, CA has number of years of experience. Our instructors go through training on regular basis.

How do I choose an instrument for my child?

If a child has been exposed to various musical styles and mediums, one will often develop an interest in a specific instrument or kind of instrument. It’s always better to encourage an existing interest rather than introducing a new one. However, if you have any doubts, it is always best to begin with the piano.

Should I buy a new or used instrument?

It is always recommended to purchase a new instrument. However, if you opt for a used one, ensure you have it checked and tuned or adjusted properly. No matter what type of instrument you choose, learn to care for it properly.

How long does it take to become skilled at an instrument?

There’s no specific answer of how long it takes to become skilled at an instrument. It actually differs from learner to learner, including one’s age and the amount of practice one carries out.

How long and frequent are lessons?

Beginning children ages 4 to 5 years old should begin with a 30-minute lesson, once a week. Beginning children ages 6 to 8 years can begin with either 30 or 45-minute lessons, based on the experience and developmental readiness. All other beginning students, including adults, must begin with 45-minute lessons. Since our lessons are customized to every student, your instructor may recommend longer session as the student progresses or multiple lessons a week.

Can I help my child practice even if I don’t have any musical capability or background?

Yes, you can always ask the instructor to learn ways to help your child practice.

What if the personalities of instructor and student don’t work well or the student is dissatisfied?

It is one of the benefits of taking lessons at our music school. We have several instructors for the majority of instruments. Although such sort of problem is extremely rare, however, we can switch over to another instructor. We offer flexibility to change to another teacher.

Can I study more than one instrument?

Yes, you can as long as the scheduling of the classes doesn’t clash. Additional electives can be chosen to tailor the program as per your area of interest.

We would like to try piano lessons. Do we require purchasing an instrument immediately?

No, you can consider renting a keyboard in the beginning.

Can I opt for private lessons?

Yes, you can opt for private lessons. Private lessons are subject to the time and availability of an instructor.

What if my child starts out in the lessons and genuinely hates the instrument?

Your child can try a new instrument. We offer free switching over to any other instrument at any time. It’s better to try something else instead of ending up hating music. However, it does take quite a few months to develop a fundamental level of playing. It’s best to try and give it a minimum of two months prior to making a decision to switch to another instrument or to give up.

Is 30-minute session sufficient for beginners?

Yes, in the beginning, a 30-minute session provides the student with a lot to practice at home. One could mentally handle a longer session, but playing an instrument even entails a physical skill. To get the physical side down takes spaced repetition. In a 30-minute session, a student will get an adequate amount of material to be capable of learning well and developing proper technique. As one progresses, and at the recommendation of the instructor, one can start taking longer sessions.

How much practice should my child do every week?

As per our experienced instructors, every student must practice for a minimum of fifteen minutes every day and six days every week. Even though it’s the absolute lowest advice, students will improve faster and remember more if they’re capable of practicing more often.