Common Music Questions and Answers

Q:Do I need a piano at home to take piano lessons?
A: It is not necessary to have a piano at home. You can practice and learn essential piano skills by using an electric keyboard. Most of our students rent or buy small electric keyboards to practice on at home. We recommend a keyboard that has regular sized keys and a touch sensitive response. A touch sensitive keyboard means if you press a key harder it will play louder and if you press a key softer it will play quieter.

Q: Do I need a full drum set to take drum lessons?
A: No you do not need a full drum set to start drum lessons. Students can start lessons by using a practice pad. This is a small dinner-plate sized pad that costs $20-$30 and is used for practicing basic drum techniques. Both beginners and most advanced drummers (even with elaborate drum sets) use drum pads regularly, even daily, to practice rudiments, which are the essence of drumming technique.

Q:How long does it take to learn an instrument?
A: There is no set answer of how long it takes to learn an instrument. With regular practice a basic level of playing can be accomplished in a few months. Most of our students take lessons on a long term basis because they want to be constantly improving and they find the lessons enjoyable.

Q: I don't have any musical background or ability; can I still help my child practice?
A: Yes. Even if you don't have a musical background you can ask the teacher for advice on how to help your child practice. By simply monitoring that they are doing exercises a certain number of times per day the student will progress. Many parents occasionally sit in on their child's music lesson to get an idea of the proper way a song should sound or how the student should be positioning their hands.

Reasons which make Onset Village Music the best choice for you:

University Trained Teachers
Our instructors are highly qualified and many have extensive performance experience. Most importantly, our instructors strive to relate their teaching to each individual student's learning style.

All Ages - Beginners to Advanced
Our current students range from 5 years old to many students in their 60's and 70's. We take care to teach what you want to learn so music is rewarding for students of all ages and levels.

Private Lessons
Private lessons ensure that the student has the undivided one-on-one attention of the teacher and can progress at a level suited to them individually.

Regular Concerts and Recitals
Recitals and concerts are held once a year. These provide students with performance experience and build confidence. Participation in music festivals is also available.

Audition Preparation
We offer full training in repertoire, studies, technique, ear training and sight reading to prepare students for All-Cape, District, All-State, and college auditions.

Theory Classes
Classes are taught in preparation for exams in all levels of college theory, history, harmony, counterpoint, and analysis.

Music Lessons for All Ages & Abilities

No matter what your age or level of musical experience, Onset Village Music will help you learn in a helpful, caring, and professional atmosphere.

Call us today!