Instrument Instruction

The study of a musical instrument provides powerful benefits. Studies show that children show that children who play an instrument score higher on spacial and congitive tests, develop their self-esteem, and improve their coordination. Adults find that study of an instrument provides meditative benefits and enjoyment that reaches beyond the everyday pressures of life. Our curriculum trains the entire body - muscles, ear and brain - so as to develop basic musicianship and a solid foundation of skills for pursuit of any style of music.

Merrimack Valley Community Music School provides instrument instruction for people of all ages and levels of experience. Students may enroll in one-to-one instruction, or in a small class setting to develop listening and technical skills particular to ensemble playing.

Classes run in 16-week terms: September – January, and February – June. Students are welcome to sign up mid-term, in which case tuition is prorated appropriately. Prices for classes are listed below. We offer a 5% family discount when a family takes two or more classes in a term (a family is a group of people who reside at the same address and/or a group of children who share a common parent/guardian).

We offer instruction in:

Cello	Drums	Flute	Guitar
viola	Organ	Recorder	Bass
Violin	Piano	Saxophone	Voice

Private Lessons

Private lessons involve one-to-one instruction and can be customized to meet the specific learning needs and objectives of each student. Student skills can range from very beginning levels to those preparing for conservatory study. Each student will meet with the instructor before lessons begin, to perform a skills assessment and determine an appropriate course of study based on individual needs and music goals. The private lesson program includes 16 lessons and an end-of-term recital.

Class Times

Instrument instructors generally teach in the afternoons and early evenings, although some day-time slots may be available. Please contact us for availability.

Prerequisites

Students of any ability may take private lessons

Fee

30 minute lessons	$608.00 - 16 weeks ($15 discount for up-front payment)
45 minute lessons	$880.00 - 16 weeks ($20 discount for up-front payment)
60 minute lessons	$1150.00 - 16 weeks ($25 discount for up-front payment)

Semi-private Lessons

Semi-private lessons, or lessons shared by two students, may be arranged upon request or when there are not enough students for a small group class. This option provides more individualized instruction than that of a group class, and often works well for a student who wishes to learn with a family member or friend. We can also try to match up students of similar ability (depending on availability).

Class Times

Monday through Saturday based on instructor availability

Prerequisites

Students of all ages and abilities are accepted. Students must be able to be matched with another student of similar ability.

Fee

30 minute lessons	$442.50 - 16 weeks ($5 discount for up-front payment)
45 minute lessons	$637.50 - 16 weeks ($8 discount for up-front payment)
60 minute lessons	$832.50 - 16 weeks ($10 discount for up-front payment)

Group Lessons

The Merrimack Valley Community Music School offers small group lessons in a number of instruments and voice. We limit attendance to six students, so students get plenty of individualized instruction. Group lessons are for beginning or nearly-beginning students. All classes are for 3rd-5th graders unless otherwise specified. Classes are 50 minutes weekly for 16 weeks and include a recital at the end of the term.

Class Times
Group Drumming: Mondays 3:30 - 4:30pm
Group Voice: Wednesdays 4:00 - 4:50pm (ages 6 to 10 years old)
Group Cello: Thursdays 3:30 - 4:30pm
Group Violin: Fridays 3:30 - 4:30pm
Group Acoustic Guitar: Fridays 4:15 - 5:15pm
Orff Ensemble: Fridays 7:30 - 8:20am
Elementary Wind Chamber Groups: Fridays 7:30 - 8:20am
Middle School Intro to Guitar Class: Fridays 5:15 - 6:15pm (grades 6-8)

Prerequisites: No skill or experience prerequisites. Students must provide their own instruments (the school can help you find a rental or purchase.)

Fee: $330 for the 16 week program