Private lessons are not only the best
for way a student to improve his or her understanding of their
instrument, but also develop focus, discipline, physical awareness,
and self confidence. Lessons are not just for the young person who
wants to go on into a professional careers, but even more for those
who want to have music be a rewarding part of their life at any
level. Music students of today go on to become doctors, teachers,
chefs, activists, and business owners who not only patronize the arts
but participate in them passionately. Lessons teach so much more
than just scales and tunes!
Recommended length of lessons:
Beginner- Book 1: 30 minutes
Book 2-3: 45 minutes
Book 4 and up: 60 minutes
A student's daily practice should be about the same length as their weekly lesson.
Materials:
Cello and bow in good
working order, of an appropriate size.
*If you are just beginning to play,
please consult me before obtaining an instrument!*
Notebook to track practicing
assignments
pencil
Lesson books, including Klengel
Technical Studies, Suzuki books, De'ak Duos, Bach Cello Suites, etc.
School Orchestra music, only if
assistance is needed
At home:
sturdy chair of appropriate height (may be needed at lessons, too)
music stand
electronic tuner/metronome (I recommend this Intelli model)
large, wide mirror (optional)
recording device (optional)
a dedicated practice spot, as private as the student may wish
Student Responsibilities:
Come to lessons ready to learn!
Have your instrument out, your bow
rosined before your lesson time
Prepare practice assignments including:
scales, etudes, exercises, new repertoire and review
pieces
Clip your finger nails!!!
Take care of you cello
Parent Responsibilities:
Arrive 5 minutes early for lessons
Turn off sound on cell phones and
gadgets in the studio with you
Obtain any necessary materials or take care of any instrument repairs in a timely manner
Always encourage practice, no matter
what is being worked on!
Parents are always encouraged to
observe lessons, although this is left up to each family. I
encourage the model of my own mother, who sat in on my lessons all
the way through high school, not to participate or help me
to practice, but so that she could always be aware of how this
important part of my life was developing. She also simply enjoyed
it; not having any musical background herself, she learned so much
more than she would have by sitting in the car with a book.
Siblings are encouraged as well, as long as they have quiet,
unobtrusive activities to occupy them.
For students over age 10, practicing
cello should be a singular, self-guided adventure, not a homework
assignment that requires daily tutoring. There are few better ways
to develop complex problem solving skills and diligence than to allow
a student to explore on their own. But don't hesitate to give
occasional constructive feedback- “Maybe that could be a little
slower”, “Do you feel like that shift was really in tune?” They
will feel good knowing someone is listening.