music school faq's

A: With the instructor's permission, CSMA permits class observation during the last two classes of the term.

A: CSMA offers registration online, mail, fax, or walk-in at our main office. You can download a registration form here.

A: CSMA classes cover the full range of styles from classical, jazz, popular and world music. Classes are offered for all ages and all skill levels.

We provide introductory group instruction for various instruments, ensemble and theory classes, and a range of special interest classes, including master classes with distinguished guest artists and faculty. See a complete list of Music Classes.

A: Although excellent teachers can be found in almost every neighborhood, as a music school CSMA presents your child with many important advantages:

• broader choices and access to teachers, instruments, classes, interaction with other students, concerts and performance opportunities
• alternative schedule options
• a teacher matched to your specific needs, level and style
• an environment where students can be stimulated in their musical discoveries
• financial aid program for students and families who need some help

Because we believe in providing a complete music education to our students, included in your private lesson tuition is your choice of a free weekly Core Curriculum Class.

A: CSMA teachers provide a nurturing and positive attitude, good use of time, skills and knowledge to the desired level, goal-setting, and responsiveness to student/parent questions.

A: When you contact the Private Lesson Coordinator via phone or email, you will discuss your specific needs (learning style, time schedule, etc.) Based on this, we will recommend your placement with a teacher. Changes may be requested between semesters.

A: Each student needs to have an instrument available for regular practice. You may purchase, rent, buy or borrow an instrument. CSMA has a limited number of instruments for emergency short-term loan. Many excellent music stores are in the area that can help you with your needs.

A: CSMA recommends daily practice of 30-60 minutes, depending on age/level. A regular routine is much better than long, infrequent sessions. If good habits develop from the beginning, students will achieve their true reward - the best progress possible.

A: CSMA allows withdrawal after one lesson, but requires commitment to the full semester after taking the second lesson. We encourage commitment and patience over a period of time to understand how the rewards of musical accomplishments are secured and enjoyed. Summer offers the most flexibility for taking a break, but not for three months, since habits and benefits easily fade.

A: Tuition for private lessons depends on the number of weeks each semester. See our Private Lessons page for the current semester's Tuition & Fees. In keeping with our commitment to Arts for All, our Financial Aid Program offers tuition assistance for lessons.

A: CSMA registers new students three times during the year, prior to the beginning of each semester. A new student orientation (now available online) is required for new adult private lesson students or the parents of new school-age students and must be completed before registering for private lessons. CSMA accepts new students after the semester has begun on a space-available basis only. For more information about registration, contact CSMA's Student Services Office (650-917-6800 ext. 0) or Noah Luna, Program Coordinator, Private Lessons (650-917-6800 ext. 330; nluna@arts4all.org).

A: Six-years old is a good general guide, although some children start earlier with a special curriculum. For a successful and enjoyable start to instrumental lessons, CSMA recommends that your child have:

• a 30-minute concentration span
• the ability to work with adult guidance
• age-appropriate word-reading ability and motor skills

Recommended starting ages:

• 4-7 years -- string instruments (violin, cello, guitar)
• 6-8 years -- piano
• 8-10 years -- clarinet, drums, flute, oboe, saxophone,
• 9-12 years -- bassoon, French horn, harp, trombone, trumpet, voice

A: Provide opportunities for your child to experience a variety of music. Watch for special interest. CSMA's Sound Sampler class can help in deciding what instrument to pursue. The class provides children with hands-on exposure to a variety of instruments.

A: In making this decision, CSMA recommends consideration of your child's needs and whether your presence will help:

• concentration/focus
• teacher-student relationship/communication
• your understanding of lesson style, assignments, progress
• use of lesson time
• discovery of special talents/problems, etc.

A: Follow your child's interests. It is counter-productive to force a child to take lessons. CSMA offers a wide range of music activities for children, including introductory group classes in keyboard, guitar, and violin, to name a few.

A: A music curriculum designed for instruction during the pre-reading years (ages 4-6). Inspired by the philosophy of Japanese educator Shinichi Suzuki.

CSMA offers both group classes and private lessons in Suzuki Violin (for students 4 to 5 years of age) and Suzuki Recorder* (for students 3-1/2 to 5 years of age).

*Suzuki Recorder group classes offered during Summer Session only.

A: Student recitals at the school; outreach performances in the community; various certificate programs; classical and jazz ensembles; advanced theory by arrangement; masterclasses and private instruction from guest artist teachers.

A: Yes. At registration time, any special needs should be communicated to our staff to ensure the best possible placement for your child.

A: CSMA offers several introductory music classes for children as young as 18 months of age. In the classes for the youngest children, parent & child participate together in creative, hands-on music & movement activities.

More about CSMA's Preschool Program