It is common and expected for students and parents to have
questions regarding music instruction and private music lessons.
Below you can read answers to some of the most frequently asked
questions and familiarize yourself with MNA's Academy policies as
well. Please contact us you have questions that are not answered
here, your music education is important to us.
questions regarding music instruction and private music lessons.
Below you can read answers to some of the most frequently asked
questions and familiarize yourself with MNA's Academy policies as
well. Please contact us you have questions that are not answered
here, your music education is important to us.
When Should My Child Begin Music Lessons?
Students can begin music lessons at almost any age. For children younger than five years of
age, group pre-school music classes are most suitable and will be offered at Music Notes
Academy in the future.
Piano: Five years of age is the earliest recommended age for starting private music lessons.
Students around this age begin to develop the ability to retain information and remain
attentive for periods of time. Music Notes Academy's Director of Education designed lesson
plans and a progressive curriculum that is exciting, engaging and comprehensive for young
piano students.
Guitar: Students around seven to nine years of age can learn classical guitar due to its lighter
weight, overall size and easier to play nylon strings. Students older than nine years of age
can usually start lessons on a guitar of their choice (acoustic, classical or electric), however
classical instruction is recommended in the beginning.
Percussion/Drums: Students who wish to study percussion can start around five years of
age. Students can start on a practice pad, snare drum or a drum set that is smaller in size for
younger children. Many students who have started at an early age have shown great ability
and progress through the years. Mr. Kurzawa designed a program for young percussion
students in 2005 which is tailored for elementary aged students.
What Is The Appropriate Lesson Length For My Child?
Call to speak with the director
What Are The Advantages To Studying Music In The Student's Home?
There are many advantages for students who receive professional music instruction in the
comfort of their home. For percussion students, the instructor can monitor the student at his
or her snare drum and drum set and assess proper sitting positioning, placement and
performance techniques on their instrument(s). Similar for piano instruction, piano students
receive professional instruction on their piano! Instructors can also recommend repairs and
instrument upgrades for students when ready.
What Are The Advantages To Studying Music From Teachers At Music Notes Academy?
Music teachers at Music Notes Academy are simply dedicated to the field of music education.
The teachers, also active musicians in the fields of recording and performing, are trained by
the school's Executive Director and Director of Education in teaching methods, strategies and
instructional techniques to appropriately meet the learning styles and needs of each student.
All teachers have at minimum a Bachelors degree in music and have professional teaching
experience in the field of music. Additionally, Music Notes Academy is a full music center where
students and parents can purchase musical instruments, instructional materials and music
accessories at special discounts.
My Child Has Shown An Interest In Drums & Percussion. What Does He/She Need To
Start Music Lessons & What Will He/She Learn In Each Lesson?
Percussion students have advantages when beginning music lessons. Students can begin
with a practice pad, snare drum or drum set, however are always encouraged to purchase a
concert bell kit as well. A practice pad and drumsticks offer the most affordable beginning to
learning percussion, while drum sets present a more significant investment. Students and
parents are encouraged to speak with Mr. Kurzawa prior to purchasing specific instruments,
as different brands are preferred over others due to quality and craftsmanship.
In each music lesson percussion students will study in four different areas: Music theory,
mallet keyboard (concert bell kit applications), classical snare drum and contemporary drum
set. Since a comprehensive percussion education entails these four specific subject areas,
students and parents are encouraged to purchase at minimum a practice pad and bell kit at
the beginning of study.
My Child Has Shown An Interest In Piano. What Does He/She Need To Start Music
Lessons & What Will He/She Learn In Each Lesson?
Call to speak with the director
My Child Has Shown An Interest In Guitar. What Does He/She Need To Start Music
Lessons & What Will He/She Learn In Each Lesson?
Call to speak with the director
What If My Child Cannot Attend His/Her Weekly Scheduled Lesson? How Will Make-Up
Lessons Be Scheduled?
Call to speak with the director
Can Adult Students Register For Music Lessons?
Adult students can certainly register for lessons and learn to play a musical instrument. We
ask adult students to consider if they have time during their average day to practice for a
minimum of fifteen minutes in length. Many adults have busy daily schedules and
responsibilities which may hinder on learning a musical instrument.
Can Students Register For A Trial Lesson?
Yes, trial lessons are available when scheduling permits. Students are encouraged to register
for music lessons on a monthly basis even if uncertainty is a concern. Students will not be able
to determine accurately during one lesson if music is an activity that will be interesting and
enjoyable. Parents can register their child on a month-to-month basis, however parents are
encouraged to consider music lessons for at least six months before discontinuing altogether.
Can Parents Observe Lessons?
Absolutely, parents are always welcome to observe their child's lesson! We recommend that
parents do not make it a regular occurrence, however, is important for the student to know
that the parents are interested in their talents and progress. Observation also allows the
parents to be informed as to what is expected of their child during their weekly practicing and
parental support is very important in a child's education.
What If My Child Needs To Re-Schedule A Lesson?
Call to speak with the director
What If My Child Misses His/Her Music Lesson?
Call to speak with the director
Inclement Weather Procedures:
Call to speak with the director
How Should My Child Practice Music?
Practice Everyday: Create a practice time during each day that works for students and
parents to help create the habit of practicing daily. Teachers will work with students and
encourage proper practicing strategies.
Repetition: Practice in short amounts of time rather than longer periods of time infrequently.
Practice exercises and repertoire repeatedly to gain improvements in performance and try to
focus on details, rather than how minutes the practice session commences.
Rewards:
Off students rewards and incentives to practice during times when they do not naturally
practice on their own. Students need encouragement from parents/guardians during the
week in between lessons.
What Is The Professional & Educational Experience Of Music Notes' Teachers?
You may read teacher biographies on our About Us page!
Are Students Evaluated Regularly?
Students are evaluated regularly and parents are informed of student progression, areas in
need of improvement and accomplishment.
What Instructional Materials Do Teachers Use?
Call to speak with the director
What Styles & Genres Of Music Are Taught At Music Notes?
Call to speak with the director
Are Recitals & Performance Opportunities Available?
Recitals and performance opportunities currently exist annually in the Spring. Recitals and
performances plan to be offered twice a year starting in the 2007 - 2008 academic year.
Can I Have Lessons Every Other Week?
Music lessons every other week are not recommended for students, even younger students.
Some students and parents do prefer lessons every other week and if an instructor's
schedule allows for such requests accommodations will be made for student or parent's
request. However, in certain circumstances, due to scheduling arrangements, students may
be asked to commit to weekly lessons or choose to forfeit their lesson time due to students
on a waiting list who are waiting for weekly lessons.
Can Music Lessons Occur More Than Once A Week?
Sure, students can schedule extra music lessons when availability permits. Many adult
students request additional lessons each week and we will happily assist in such requests.
How Should My House Be Arranged For Music Lessons?
Speak directly with each teacher for arrangement specifics. More information coming soon!
What Does The Student Need To Have For Each Lesson?
Always the instrument! Method books, appropriate accessories, completed homework,
assignment book, chair for the teacher, etc...
What Is Music Notes' Philosophy on Music Education?
Parents often ask "Are tuition discounts available for my son or daughter?"
Music Notes Academy's tuition, although affordable and comparable to other community music
schools - where the student has to travel too(!) - does not only allocate tuition towards
compensating the instructors. Tuition is applied towards administration, website maintenance,
curriculum development, associated membership fees, recital production and most importantly
instructor professional development. Tuition discounts may be available for students based on
progress, practicing and efforts towards musical excellence. Parents are encouraged to speak
with me personally regarding tuition assistance and scholarships. And remember, the
teachers commute to the student's home! ~Mr. Brandon Kurzawa, Executive Director
Students can begin music lessons at almost any age. For children younger than five years of
age, group pre-school music classes are most suitable and will be offered at Music Notes
Academy in the future.
Piano: Five years of age is the earliest recommended age for starting private music lessons.
Students around this age begin to develop the ability to retain information and remain
attentive for periods of time. Music Notes Academy's Director of Education designed lesson
plans and a progressive curriculum that is exciting, engaging and comprehensive for young
piano students.
Guitar: Students around seven to nine years of age can learn classical guitar due to its lighter
weight, overall size and easier to play nylon strings. Students older than nine years of age
can usually start lessons on a guitar of their choice (acoustic, classical or electric), however
classical instruction is recommended in the beginning.
Percussion/Drums: Students who wish to study percussion can start around five years of
age. Students can start on a practice pad, snare drum or a drum set that is smaller in size for
younger children. Many students who have started at an early age have shown great ability
and progress through the years. Mr. Kurzawa designed a program for young percussion
students in 2005 which is tailored for elementary aged students.
What Is The Appropriate Lesson Length For My Child?
Call to speak with the director
What Are The Advantages To Studying Music In The Student's Home?
There are many advantages for students who receive professional music instruction in the
comfort of their home. For percussion students, the instructor can monitor the student at his
or her snare drum and drum set and assess proper sitting positioning, placement and
performance techniques on their instrument(s). Similar for piano instruction, piano students
receive professional instruction on their piano! Instructors can also recommend repairs and
instrument upgrades for students when ready.
What Are The Advantages To Studying Music From Teachers At Music Notes Academy?
Music teachers at Music Notes Academy are simply dedicated to the field of music education.
The teachers, also active musicians in the fields of recording and performing, are trained by
the school's Executive Director and Director of Education in teaching methods, strategies and
instructional techniques to appropriately meet the learning styles and needs of each student.
All teachers have at minimum a Bachelors degree in music and have professional teaching
experience in the field of music. Additionally, Music Notes Academy is a full music center where
students and parents can purchase musical instruments, instructional materials and music
accessories at special discounts.
My Child Has Shown An Interest In Drums & Percussion. What Does He/She Need To
Start Music Lessons & What Will He/She Learn In Each Lesson?
Percussion students have advantages when beginning music lessons. Students can begin
with a practice pad, snare drum or drum set, however are always encouraged to purchase a
concert bell kit as well. A practice pad and drumsticks offer the most affordable beginning to
learning percussion, while drum sets present a more significant investment. Students and
parents are encouraged to speak with Mr. Kurzawa prior to purchasing specific instruments,
as different brands are preferred over others due to quality and craftsmanship.
In each music lesson percussion students will study in four different areas: Music theory,
mallet keyboard (concert bell kit applications), classical snare drum and contemporary drum
set. Since a comprehensive percussion education entails these four specific subject areas,
students and parents are encouraged to purchase at minimum a practice pad and bell kit at
the beginning of study.
My Child Has Shown An Interest In Piano. What Does He/She Need To Start Music
Lessons & What Will He/She Learn In Each Lesson?
Call to speak with the director
My Child Has Shown An Interest In Guitar. What Does He/She Need To Start Music
Lessons & What Will He/She Learn In Each Lesson?
Call to speak with the director
What If My Child Cannot Attend His/Her Weekly Scheduled Lesson? How Will Make-Up
Lessons Be Scheduled?
Call to speak with the director
Can Adult Students Register For Music Lessons?
Adult students can certainly register for lessons and learn to play a musical instrument. We
ask adult students to consider if they have time during their average day to practice for a
minimum of fifteen minutes in length. Many adults have busy daily schedules and
responsibilities which may hinder on learning a musical instrument.
Can Students Register For A Trial Lesson?
Yes, trial lessons are available when scheduling permits. Students are encouraged to register
for music lessons on a monthly basis even if uncertainty is a concern. Students will not be able
to determine accurately during one lesson if music is an activity that will be interesting and
enjoyable. Parents can register their child on a month-to-month basis, however parents are
encouraged to consider music lessons for at least six months before discontinuing altogether.
Can Parents Observe Lessons?
Absolutely, parents are always welcome to observe their child's lesson! We recommend that
parents do not make it a regular occurrence, however, is important for the student to know
that the parents are interested in their talents and progress. Observation also allows the
parents to be informed as to what is expected of their child during their weekly practicing and
parental support is very important in a child's education.
What If My Child Needs To Re-Schedule A Lesson?
Call to speak with the director
What If My Child Misses His/Her Music Lesson?
Call to speak with the director
Inclement Weather Procedures:
Call to speak with the director
How Should My Child Practice Music?
Practice Everyday: Create a practice time during each day that works for students and
parents to help create the habit of practicing daily. Teachers will work with students and
encourage proper practicing strategies.
Repetition: Practice in short amounts of time rather than longer periods of time infrequently.
Practice exercises and repertoire repeatedly to gain improvements in performance and try to
focus on details, rather than how minutes the practice session commences.
Rewards:
Off students rewards and incentives to practice during times when they do not naturally
practice on their own. Students need encouragement from parents/guardians during the
week in between lessons.
What Is The Professional & Educational Experience Of Music Notes' Teachers?
You may read teacher biographies on our About Us page!
Are Students Evaluated Regularly?
Students are evaluated regularly and parents are informed of student progression, areas in
need of improvement and accomplishment.
What Instructional Materials Do Teachers Use?
Call to speak with the director
What Styles & Genres Of Music Are Taught At Music Notes?
Call to speak with the director
Are Recitals & Performance Opportunities Available?
Recitals and performance opportunities currently exist annually in the Spring. Recitals and
performances plan to be offered twice a year starting in the 2007 - 2008 academic year.
Can I Have Lessons Every Other Week?
Music lessons every other week are not recommended for students, even younger students.
Some students and parents do prefer lessons every other week and if an instructor's
schedule allows for such requests accommodations will be made for student or parent's
request. However, in certain circumstances, due to scheduling arrangements, students may
be asked to commit to weekly lessons or choose to forfeit their lesson time due to students
on a waiting list who are waiting for weekly lessons.
Can Music Lessons Occur More Than Once A Week?
Sure, students can schedule extra music lessons when availability permits. Many adult
students request additional lessons each week and we will happily assist in such requests.
How Should My House Be Arranged For Music Lessons?
Speak directly with each teacher for arrangement specifics. More information coming soon!
What Does The Student Need To Have For Each Lesson?
Always the instrument! Method books, appropriate accessories, completed homework,
assignment book, chair for the teacher, etc...
What Is Music Notes' Philosophy on Music Education?
- All students are entitled to receive a music education, which can be successfully
achieved in the student's home - Parents are integral in a student's achievements, success, goals and progression -
parents and guardians are encouraged to be proactive and involved in their child's
music education - All students ought to be supported and encouraged, by their instructor, within their
individual learning styles, abilities, interests and musical goals - Instructional methods are delivered in appropriateness with each student's age,
abilities and in alignment with the Academy's curriculum - Each dedicated instructor is believed unique and approaches instruction uniquely,
within a curriculum, which hopes to inspire and challenge students to reach their
fullest potential
Parents often ask "Are tuition discounts available for my son or daughter?"
Music Notes Academy's tuition, although affordable and comparable to other community music
schools - where the student has to travel too(!) - does not only allocate tuition towards
compensating the instructors. Tuition is applied towards administration, website maintenance,
curriculum development, associated membership fees, recital production and most importantly
instructor professional development. Tuition discounts may be available for students based on
progress, practicing and efforts towards musical excellence. Parents are encouraged to speak
with me personally regarding tuition assistance and scholarships. And remember, the
teachers commute to the student's home! ~Mr. Brandon Kurzawa, Executive Director
Music Notes Academy Office: (908) 393.1418 Director's Mobile: (908) 938.0366
| Est. 2000 |
 | |  | |  | |  | |  | |  | |  | |  |
| Music Notes Academy, LLC Learn Today, Play Tomorrow™ PO Box 8035 Bridgewater, NJ 08807-8035 Music Notes Academy Office: 908.393.1418 Director's Mobile: 908.938.0366 Website By Brandon Kurzawa for Music Notes Academy, LLC Contact Webmaster Reproduction of website content is strictly prohibited, contact Music Notes Academy for reprint permission. Copyright © 2009 Music Notes Academy, LLC. All Rights Reserved. |
 | |  | |  | |  | |  | |  | |  | |  |
 | |  | |  | |  | |  |
 | |  | |  |
| FAQ |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
| |
 |
 | |  | |  | |  | |  |
 | |  | |  | |  | |  |
