What is Masonboro Arts?
Mission Statement: Masonboro Arts is a facility that strives to provide enrichment to its participants in the study of classical music and dance arts through a curriculum designed to develop skills in all interested children and adults.
The music curriculum:
Private lessons supplemented by group lessons are offered on a year-round schedule in piano, stringed instruments, woodwinds, brass, guitar, and percussion. All private lessons are one-on-one, student with teacher. The group lessons enhance the learning experience with enjoyable activities and casual performances among peers in a supportive atmosphere, whereby the students gradually overcome stage anxiety. Students also have opportunities to apply their developing skills by performing in public events and our annual recital. As Masonboro Arts maintains that learning music is a shared responsibility involving student, instructor, and parents, successful outcomes depend upon commitment to consistent daily practice at home in application of the concepts taught to the students' readiness. In time the student will become quite proficient in a classical repertoire as well as in genres of music s/he enjoys most. With adequate interest, students will not only learn a beautiful art form, but also increase analytical aptitude, self and peer respect, social skills, focal abilities, and appreciation for music and art.
What costs are involved?
Please consult the registration agreement for tuition schedule. Assuming the music student has an instrument, the only costs involve the purchase of music books and other tools that may be recommended by your instructor such as a metronome. Competitions, master classes, and workshops usually charge nominal entry fees. Our music recitals are free of charge and open to guests.
What is the best age to start?
The Suzuki method can be started with very young children with ability to focus on the teacher's instruction, as young as three. Traditional methods and instruments other than violin, cello, or flute would be better introduced at age six or seven, although success can be realized with younger children as well. We will be happy to work with you to assess your child for readiness in our program. It is never too late to begin either method!
I want to learn how to play by ear. Can you teach me that?
Ear training is part of your study of music, and once you understand theory, chords, etc., you will develop the ability to play by ear. However, reading music is a purpose of music study, and you will find that it is most enjoyable! A full understanding of how music is arranged in writing is necessary for study of an instrument.
Why does the Suzuki method not teach the reading of music?
Suzuki students most definitely learn to read music! At first, though, they build a readiness through listening and focusing structly on developing a technique that provides a basis for applying note reading. Suzuki method parents should read all available literature about the method to become fully convinced of its merit as an effective methodology.
How soon can I expect results?
Very soon! With the necessary interest and commitment to daily practice, you will see results almost immediately. All students are paced at their own ability levels, but the average student generally advances to play music literature within one year.
I am concerned about recitals. I don't want to push my child too hard. Can I decide for myself when the child is ready to perform?
We at Masonboro Arts expect all students to set performance as a goal for themselves, and require them to play in our recitals. The group lessons help greatly in preventing stage anxiety. It is our experience that those students who attempt to avoid the goal of performance do not progress as satisfactorily as those who prepare and follow through. Most of us would eschew the pressure if we had the choice! However, the students always feel very good about their accomplishment, never regret the effort, and mark a milestone of hard work every year at the recital.
I cannot seem to make my child practice. Should we give up?
Daily practice is a necessary component of music lessons. Your instructor will guide you about recommended practice regimens. Inconsistent practice habits will be reflected in delayed progress. Most children and adolescents do not like to practice and their resistance is not an indication that this is not suited for them. There are methods and mechanisms that make the process a little easier such as whimsical timing gadgets, incentive sheets, and especially a consistent home routine and supportive family that fosters the effort. Practicing yields result. If you can get your child on a practice regimen, you will see bona fide results instantly. We will be glad to help with practice incentives.
We are dedicated to providing the best possible learning experience for you or your child, and will be available to discuss any aspect of your enrollment by phone or by appointment.
