Frequently Asked Questions
1. What size instrument should my child use? (String Instruments)
During our 3rd Grade Interview [See "3rd Grade Instrument Selection" Page for more info], students are measured and recommended a size. A representative at the Music&Arts store can measure your child as well.
Average Sized 4th Grade Student:
Above Average 4th Grade Student:
2. How often should my child practice during the week?
1st year students (4th Grade): the goal is 10-20 minutes per day, 5 days a week
2nd year students (5th Grade): the goal is 20-30 minutes per day, 5 days a week
Remember- the more time you practice, the better you will become and the more fun playing will be! :)
Please visit my "Practicing Tips" page for different ways to practice during the week.
3. What is the difference between a violin and a viola?
The violin is slightly smaller and has a high bright sound. The violin strings are: G, D, A, G.
Notation for the violin is written in treble cleft:
The viola is slightly larger and has a low mellow sound- similar to a cello. The viola strings are: C, G, D, A.
Notation for the viola is written in alto cleft:
4. When do lessons take place?
4th Grade Students meet once a week for 40 minutes during instructional time. Instrumental lessons are based on a rotating schedule to ensure that students do not miss the same class week-to-week. Please visit "4th Grade Instrumental Program" page for more information
5th Grade Students meet twice a week. Once for a in-school rehearsal and once for exciting combined after-school rehearsals at Haverford High School with all instrumental students in the district. Please visit "5th Grade String Orchestra" page for more information.
5. Are there commitments outside of school?
Yes- students participate in annual concerts! :)
4th Grade Students will have one evening concert in January at Haverford High School. (No outside school rehearsals are required)
5th Grade String Students will have three evening concerts: in December, February, and May at Haverford High School. After-school rehearsals once a week at Haverford High School are required.
6. Can I purchase an instrument?
Please consult either Dr. Shanefield or myself before purchasing any instrument. We recommend renting for the benefits of repairing/replacing. In addition, string students will move up in sizes as they grow.
Please DO NOT purchase colored instruments or AMAZON instruments- although physically/financially appealing, these instruments are known for poor quality of sound and difficulty staying in tune which are very important to a beginner's success.
If you have any other questions please visit the other pages with more information about each grade music program. I will be happy to answer any other questions through email at [email protected] :)
1. What size instrument should my child use? (String Instruments)
During our 3rd Grade Interview [See "3rd Grade Instrument Selection" Page for more info], students are measured and recommended a size. A representative at the Music&Arts store can measure your child as well.
Average Sized 4th Grade Student:
- 1/2 size Violin
- 12 inch Viola
- 1/2 size Cello
Above Average 4th Grade Student:
- 3/4 size Violin
- 13 inch Viola
- 3/4 size Cello
2. How often should my child practice during the week?
1st year students (4th Grade): the goal is 10-20 minutes per day, 5 days a week
2nd year students (5th Grade): the goal is 20-30 minutes per day, 5 days a week
Remember- the more time you practice, the better you will become and the more fun playing will be! :)
Please visit my "Practicing Tips" page for different ways to practice during the week.
3. What is the difference between a violin and a viola?
The violin is slightly smaller and has a high bright sound. The violin strings are: G, D, A, G.
Notation for the violin is written in treble cleft:
The viola is slightly larger and has a low mellow sound- similar to a cello. The viola strings are: C, G, D, A.
Notation for the viola is written in alto cleft:
4. When do lessons take place?
4th Grade Students meet once a week for 40 minutes during instructional time. Instrumental lessons are based on a rotating schedule to ensure that students do not miss the same class week-to-week. Please visit "4th Grade Instrumental Program" page for more information
5th Grade Students meet twice a week. Once for a in-school rehearsal and once for exciting combined after-school rehearsals at Haverford High School with all instrumental students in the district. Please visit "5th Grade String Orchestra" page for more information.
5. Are there commitments outside of school?
Yes- students participate in annual concerts! :)
4th Grade Students will have one evening concert in January at Haverford High School. (No outside school rehearsals are required)
5th Grade String Students will have three evening concerts: in December, February, and May at Haverford High School. After-school rehearsals once a week at Haverford High School are required.
6. Can I purchase an instrument?
Please consult either Dr. Shanefield or myself before purchasing any instrument. We recommend renting for the benefits of repairing/replacing. In addition, string students will move up in sizes as they grow.
Please DO NOT purchase colored instruments or AMAZON instruments- although physically/financially appealing, these instruments are known for poor quality of sound and difficulty staying in tune which are very important to a beginner's success.
If you have any other questions please visit the other pages with more information about each grade music program. I will be happy to answer any other questions through email at [email protected] :)