FAQ

Q: How much time does my child (or I) need to set aside to practice each day?

A: This really depends on the student. Elementary school - aged students should consider practicing at least 10-15 minutes a day with parental supervison. Older students should consider practicing 30-45 minutes a day or longer. These numbers are not set in stone, however. Even if you don’t have much time to devote to practicing on a given day, we can discuss methods to make the most of even very short practice sessions. 

Q: How old does my child need to be to start lessons? 

A: A child can begin lessons with me when they are 6 years old if they have parents who will supervise practice sessions to make sure the child stays on track with what is assigned during lessons. Please keep in mind that for students age 6 through approx. age 12, there is usually a fair amount of parental involvement required to keep students on track with practicing and reviewing lesson material. Lessons for young children are as much a commitment for the parent as it is for the student.

Q: Can a parent be present to listen during lessons? 

A: Absolutely. Lessons can conform to whatever makes parent and student most comfortable. I prefer and encourage parents of younger students to be present during lessons. 

Q: How long are lessons? 

A: Depending on age, I will make a recommendation as to how long the lesson should be. Generally, lessons can be 30 minutes for very young children, or 1 hour for middle school, high school, and adult students. Every student is different though, and the lesson length can be tailored to the needs of the individual. 

Q: Will I need to buy books or do you provide them? 

A: I request that the parent or adult student purchase the appropriate materials and I will give the specifics of exactly what books are needed and make suggestions as to where they may be purchased.

Q: How do I know what size violin or viola to rent or buy? 

A: We can meet prior to the start of lessons and I can take a measurement to determine the appropriate size violin or viola to rent or buy. If you are considering renting or buying locally, most violin shops can also measure the student for the appropriate sized instrument.     

Q: What forms of payment do you accept?

A: I accept cash, check, or credit / debit card. Checks should be made out to Sharon Waxman. If you prefer to pay by card, please tell me in advance and I will invoice you prior to our lesson. Payment must be made in full for all lessons each month at the first lesson of each month.