Dear Bastrop Band Parents:

 

            In these stages of a student’s musical adventure, it is important that they have every advantage available to them in order to fully develop their musical potential. Perhaps the greatest advantage you could provide for your student at this time, other than your own involvement and attention, is private instruction. This year, we are going to provide our students with access to individual private lessons on their instrument. The following information provides some answers to the most often asked questions about private lessons.

 

 

            Private lessons are a one to one level of instruction between a student and a qualified instructor on the student’s instrument. Private lessons are not the same as tutoring in other school subjects. In other words, private lessons are not “remedial.” Students do not take private lessons in order to catch up with other students. Private lessons enable a student to get ahead and stay ahead. During the course of the lessons, instruction is given to the student in the various aspects of playing that specific instrument. Guidance is provided by the instructor through direct feedback and evaluation of student playing, as well as a great deal of instructor modeling and demonstration.

 

 

            The students will meet with the instructor once a week for approximately 30 minutes, costing $17.00 to $22.00 per lesson based on the credentials and years of experience each teacher has.

 

 

 

            All of the instructors are either local musicians, instrumental music students from the surrounding universities, or retired band directors.

 

 

            The lessons will take place in the Bastrop High School Band Hall.

 

 

            Lessons will take place before school begins or after school is dismissed, with the exact time of your child’s lesson arranged between you and the instructor. Some lessons may occur during part of the student’s band class once a week.

 

 

            Many music students feel that their band director, no matter what his or her major instrument may be, is all the teacher they need. Students often have the incorrect notion that progress on their instrument is totally the responsibility of the band director. A student must also accept the responsibility of progressing on their instrument. With the help of a private teacher, the student receives personal attention which can only enhance your student’s playing ability. Any amount of time with a fine private teacher will be time well spent.

We hope that this information has answered a few of your questions about private lessons. Although we realize that having your student in band has been a significant investment, we also feel that these lessons can add an important dimension to your student’s success in band. Attached to this letter is a form which we are requesting that you complete and return if you are interested your student taking private lessons this year. Some teachers tend to fill up quickly, so have your student turn in their form as soon as they can.

 

            Please contact me at 772-7228 if you have any additional questions regarding private lessons.

 

 

Sincerely,

 

Michele Lang

Assistant Director of Bands