PRIVATE LESSONS

Students enrolling in RMA who previously studied with a teacher outside of RMA, are at least 7 years old or can read and play music from Suzuki Book 1 may register for The Private Lesson Program. Instruction is available for Violin, Viola, Cello, and Piano. All beginning students under the age of 7 must register for the Suzuki Program.

Private Lessons   There are 17 lessons per semester. The length of the lesson is determined by the teacher and parent based on age and skill level. Lessons can be 30, 45 or 60 minutes in length.   String Instrument Master Classes   Master classes take place 2 times each semester. The class provides an opportunity to experience the social aspects of music, learn from peers, and polish pieces for performance and auditions. On occasion, highly qualified professional musicians from outside RMA will be special guest teachers of the master classes.

Recitals

Performing is a natural part of musicianship. Students enrolled in The Private Lesson Program will perform a solo piece each semester in a supportive and nurturing environment among their peers, family and teachers. The semester recitals take place at The Women’s Club of Reading Center for the Performing Arts.  Rehearsal time with an accompanist is provided by RMA in preparation for the recital.

Other performing opportunities, such as play-ins and group performances, occur though out the year. Please check the RMA calendar for scheduled performance dates.

Materials

All Suzuki related materials and theory books are provided as part of student tuition. Students may be required to purchase additional materials as specified by their teacher. Students will be charged a replacement fee for lost materials.

Violin, viola and cello students must have an acceptable instrument for the first lesson. Please ask the RMA staff for more information on instrument rental. Piano students must have an acoustic piano at home. Electric keyboards are an entirely different instrument and inappropriate for Suzuki piano studies.