Group Classes
(View Current Offerings)Group classes are a wonderful way for beginners to be introduced to music instruction. We offer beginning classes in several areas for both children and adults. These classes present an affordable option that allows students to find out whether a particular instrument is right for them.
Students taking group classes share the experience with their classmates, so there is a social aspect to the class that many find very enjoyable. In children’s classes, the instructor often uses games and group activities to enliven the curriculum. Adults can share a laugh as they struggle with a new skill, and the questions asked by the various students help enlighten the whole group.
At Community Music School, our group classes are generally quite small, allowing quite a bit of individual attention. For example, our digital keyboard groups have 3 or 4 students only. Group voice classes are usually between 4 and 8 students, unless it’s a choral or band program where greater numbers are appropriate.
Parents often ask us whether private or group lessons are “better” – there are arguments supporting both. Young children generally enjoy group lessons, and many techniques of early instruction, such as playing games and imitation, are more fun in groups. Private lessons require slightly more focus and attention span. Children who are unusually quick or slow in their learning may soon leap ahead or lag behind a group, and might benefit more from private lessons. Group instruction is generally quite a bit less expensive than private, and is a good way to “test the waters” and judge whether your child is really interested in a particular instrument.
Generally speaking, after a semester or two of group lessons, students are encouraged to move on to private instruction. By that time, it’s difficult to keep all of the students in the group at the same level or with the same musical interests.
Please check our Programs schedule each semester for information about current group classes, as they change regularly. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, leave your name with the Business Office – we may be able to start a new group!