New Student Checklist!
Welcome! We’re so glad you’ve decided to take lessons with us!
Here are a few things to take care of before your first lesson.
Before your first lesson, please be sure to:
1. Obtain/purchase your own instrument. Students must have their own instruments (if you need recommendations about purchasing an instrument, see below).
2. Save your instructor’s contact information (phone and email).
3. Pick a space in your home for lessons! Make sure there is enough room for two people to sit comfortably. Well lit and open spaces such as dining rooms and living rooms are best.
– For piano/keyboard/drum lessons wherever you have your current instrument will likely be fine!
– For guitar/ukulele, two chairs without arms are best (dining room chairs are great)!
4. Check with your instructor about any special concerns (pets, special driving directions, etc).
5. Check with your instructor to see if you need any special music books (this is usually not the case, but it’s a good idea to check).
6. Tell your instructor about the music you want to learn! The more information about you (or the student) the better!
Piano and Keyboard Students
The best piano or keyboard is the one you already have! If you do not have a keyboard or piano please see our recommendations below.
Keyboard Recommendations
You are welcome to use a piano or a keyboard – whichever is easier. Below are a few keyboard options:
Affordable Option:
Yamaha PSR-E263 61-Key Portable Keyboard
Higher End (closer feel to an actual piano):
Yamaha P45, 88-Key Weighted Action Digital Piano
Guitar and Ukulele Students
The best guitar or ukulele for a lesson is the one you already have! If you do not have a guitar please see our recommendations below.
Child Size Electric Guitars:
Most children between the ages of 6 – 13 will prefer a ¾ size guitar. We recommend the Fender Squier Mini Electric Guitar. You’ll also need an amplifier and guitar cable.
Child Size Acoustic Guitars:
Most children between the ages of 6 – 13 will prefer a ¾ size guitar. We recommend the Yamaha 3/4 Size Acoustic Guitar.
For small or younger children we recommend a ½ sized guitar. The Honer 1/2 Sized Guitar is best for children younger than 6 years old.
Electric Guitar for an adult: Fender Squier; you’ll also need an amplifier and guitar cable.
Acoustic Guitar for an adult: Jasmine Acoustic Guitar.
There are thousands of guitars to choose from. The two brands recommended above are affordable and excellent beginner guitars. If you are interested in a higher end guitar, please feel free to email us.
Yes! Your teacher will help tune your guitar during your first lesson.
If your guitar is missing a string(s), please let your teacher know beforehand.
Most teachers should be able to change strings, but you will need to provide the string(s). We recommend these types:
Classical/Nylon/Plastic Guitar Strings
You can also take your guitar into a local music store to have them change the strings (but this is usually more expensive).