michaeldavisonline/flutelessons

How much are lessons?
Tuition is $150 for a full-time lesson block and $85 for a half-time lesson
block*. This covers four private weekly lessons (one hour each for full
study and thirty minutes each for half study). It also includes a free lesson
planner (if needed), entry fees for MMTA exams and contests, the cost
to participate in the annual recital and access to my lending library of
hundreds of flute books and magazines, flute instructional videos, classical
and jazz CDs, piano and orchestra accompaniment tapes, ear training
tapes and CDs and flute solo and ensemble literature.

What will we cover in lessons?
Music is about self-expression, fun, connecting with yourself and gaining
confidence and self esteem. This requires a solid foundation in the basics
of technique and ear training and a good understanding of music theory
and history. Other than that, no two students will follow exactly the same
path. It all depends on your age, ability and interests. Some students
choose to prepare for auditions and contests while other study completely
for fun. Some may wish to emphasize aural skill development and playing
by ear. Others want to brush up on old skills. Goals range from being able
to play with the church choir to becoming a professional musician.

How do you expect payment?
Payment is accepted by cash, check or money order. Tuition is due prior to the
first lesson of the block. All tuition is based on enrollment. Missed lessons (for
any reason) are forfeited, but it may be possible to schedule a make-up lesson
for a $15 fee.

Is there a way to study with you for less?
Yes. I sometimes teach through a program sponsored by
the MusicLink Foundation which is endorsed by the
Minnesota Music Teacher's Association Their mission is
to "link qualified music teachers with promising students
in need." Contact them to see if you're eligible.

I also teach group lessons. The fee for group lessons is
split between each participant, so it costs less. A full
lesson block is $200 (split 2, 3 or 4 ways) while a half
lesson block is $125.

Are group lessons as effective as private
lessons?
Yes. In fact, I love this approach and my
doctoral dissertation was based on it. Group
lessons are much different but they have many
advantages. First of all, they can be more fun,
especially for children who enjoy doing things
together. Students also learn to become
comfortable performing for others and
develop important listening, evaluation and
mentoring skills through guided peer
evaluation. Finally, they can work on
ensemble skills (rhythm, intonation and
balance) through duets, trios, and quartets.
Private students will sometimes also sign up
for group lessons for these reasons.

What will I need to get started?
If you are a beginner, all you will need for your first lesson
will be a pencil and notebook. If you have a flute already,
that's great. Eventually, you will need a flute, with case,
cleaning rod and cleaning cloth; a music stand; a metronome;
a tuner (intermediate and advanced students); and music. I will
be happy to make recommendations on all of this.

Do you teach Native American flute (or bamboo
flute, ney, etc.)?
Not really. I will be happy to share what I know, but formal
study is normally not required for these instruments unless
you're trying to master the style.

Do I have to compete and take the MMTA exams?
No, they are not a requirement, but they are strongly encouraged and I
cover the entry fees**. Some are non-competitive and are fun ways to
gauge and reward your progress and get feedback from other professional
music teachers. Others come with a monetary prize and prestige. As a
former winner of the national first prize in the college-level woodwinds
division, I can tell you from personal experience that these programs
provide a unique opportunity for growth and are deeply rewarding.