Starting Music Lessons:

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What is the youngest age my child can start lessons?

By age 4, a child is mentally and physically prepared to begin to play a musical instrument. Children can learn to replicate rhythms and learn the basics of proper technique. Before long, many can play simple turns. Beginning at such a young age helps to foster discipline, focus, dexterity, and a lifelong appreciation of music. 

 

My child won’t possibly be able to focus for even 10 minutes. How could they learn to play an instrument?

Many parents are surprised at how long their child can focus when given the proper tools. A large part of learning an instrument is learning how to pay close attention to details. When this is combined with exercises and games, even very young children can be engaged for a full lesson. In fact, many parents find that music lessons help develop these skills and contribute to their child’s success in other areas.

 

How long are the lessons?

At your trial lesson, your teacher will recommend a lesson length. Typically we recommend that you start with a 30-minute lesson. For young students in our Suzuki programs, this is in addition to the weekly 30-minute group class. Advanced students will require more lesson time, such as 45-minute or 60-minute lessons each week, especially if they are preparing for recitals or high-level RCM exams. 

 

What are the at home and practice requirements for private lessons?

Practicing is one of the toughest parts of learning an instrument, but it's also one of the best reasons for doing it! We work with parents to help make practicing as enjoyable as possible.  Through consistent practice, students learn that a small investment every day can yield wonderful long term results.

 

I’ve always wanted to take music lessons, but I never had the opportunity as a child. Is it too late to learn?

It’s never too late to learn an instrument! Many adults find great pleasure in learning an instrument later in life. Adults and children learn very differently, so the physical aspects often do not come as naturally to adults. However, they have the added advantages of discipline, self-motivation, and great comprehension capabilities.

 

Can I have a trial lesson before registering?

Absolutely! It’s a great way to see if the teacher and instrument are a good fit for you and your child before registering. Click here to book your free trial lesson today!

 

My child hasn’t turned 4 yet. What types of music lessons can we do?

For children younger than 4, pre-instrumental classes focus on learning the foundational aspects of rhythm, pitch, and a love of music. Classes also periodically feature instrument demonstrations so your child is better equipped to choose a musical instrument when they’re ready for formal private lessons.

At this time, The Lane School of Music does not offer any pre-instrumental classes, but we can recommend the following program:

• Fun with Music Together

• Kindermusik with Jo

 

Instruments

 

What instruments do you teach at The Lane School Music?

We offer private instruction in the following instruments:

• Piano

• Violin

• Guitar

• Ukulele

• Voice

• Cello (Bloor and Danforth only)

• Clarinet (Bloor only)

• Flute (Bloor only)

• Saxophone (Bloor only)

• Trumpet (Bloor only)

• Drums (Bloor only)

We also offer Suzuki method ensembles for violin and cello (to be taken in addition to private lessons). Click on the links to read more about our private lessons, Suzuki ensembles, and string orchestra program.

 

Do I need to buy an instrument in order to take lessons? How will I know what size or price range to look for?

There are a few very reputable shops in Toronto that rent and sell instruments of all sizes and calibers. Most even have a rent-to-own program. These shops are equipped to give you the right size instrument (since small children cannot use an adult-sized violin or cello) and have a few different price points for purchases or rentals, depending on your budget. Click on the links below for more information:

• Long & McQuade

• The Sound Post (string instruments only)

 

I don’t have an instrument - do I need to buy or rent one for my trial lesson?

The Lane School of Music will provide instruments for all trial lessons! You only need to purchase or rent an instrument once you have decided to register for private lessons. 

 

Ensemble Questions

 

Which ensemble should my child register in?

While our beginner ensembles are usually based on age, our more advanced classes require students to be at a certain level in order to register:

• Suzuki Pre-Twinkle: ages 4-6

• Suzuki Book 1: ages 6-8

• Pre-Orchestra: RCM 1; Suzuki Book 1-2

• Junior Orchestra: RCM 2-4; Suzuki Book 2-3

• Intermediate Orchestra: RCM 5-7; Suzuki Book 3-4

 

My child does not play a string instrument. Can they register for an ensemble?

Unfortunately, our ensemble program is currently open to violin and cello students only.

 

My child only wants to join an ensemble - do they have to take private lessons?

Our Suzuki ensembles and string orchestras are designed to build on the skills your child is building in their private lessons. Students who are not registered for private lessons are not eligible to join one of our ensembles. 

 

Do I have to attend the ensemble with my child?

For our Suzuki ensembles (Pre-Twinkle and Book 1), we suggest that parents attend classes whenever possible. By sitting in on the ensemble, you will have a front-row seat to your child’s progress throughout the year, and have all the information you need to help them practice at home. 

 

I am an adult student and would love to be part of an ensemble! Are there any options available?

Yes! We have an Adult String Orchestra program available at our Danforth location. The ensemble is open to violin and cello. Students must currently be taking private lessons and have a minimum of one year lesson experience in order to register.

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Ready to get started? Book a free trial lesson today!