Lessons

All children can benefit from developmentally appropriate musical study. Many developmental factors are considered when recommending instruments for musical study. Below are general guidelines for developmental progress with the typical ages children reach these milestones.

• Piano instruction can start when a child can reach the keys of an acoustic piano, has strength to press them to make consistent sound, and is able to focus for a half hour one-on-one lesson. Children can “see” the relationship between keys and written notes as well as hand position making it a good instrument for this age. Pianos can be rented to start. Recommended age: 5+
• Strings come in small sizes for younger children allowing them to be started at a young age once children have the focus for a half hour one-on-one lesson. Strings require finger precision & dexterity, and refinement for tuning. Instruments can be rented to start. Recommended age: 5+ (violin); 7+ (viola and cello)
• Soprano recorder is a wonderful first introduction to note reading and making music. The small size of the instrument and spacing of the holes is suited to children’s fingers and breath control. The instrument is inexpensive for a first investment and the skills developed are transferable to other instruments, allowing them to get a head start on learning music. Group classes foster friendship, teamwork, peaceful compromise and fun as children perform in a recorder choir. Individual lessons are also available. Recommended age: 5+
• Guitar & drums are favorites among late primary grade students, especially those that enjoy rock bands. Acoustic guitars with nylon strings can come in smaller sizes and are preferred at this age over electric guitars. Drums can be more complicated than they appear, requiring complexity and control in fine hand and wrist movements and advanced rhythmic capabilities. Recommended age: 7+ (guitar); 8+ (drums)
• Ukulele provides fun in a small size and allows kids to sing along as they play. Learning chords and strumming aid in coordination and listening. A unique instrument from the guitar, the ukulele is typically a less expensive instrument with fewer strings (4), different chord shapes and patterns, and a smaller range. It requires less strength and toughness of fingers. The Young Yukes class provides a social environment that fosters friendship, teamwork, peaceful compromise and fun as children perform together. Recommended age: 8+
• Wind & brass instruments (band & orchestra) are not recommended for this age due to the size of the instruments, the pressure placed on teeth, and the lip strength needed to make sound. Recommended age: 8+ (flute, clarinet); 10+ (saxophone, trumpet, trombone, french horn)

No, auditions are not required to enroll in lessons. As a community music school, the Washington Conservatory of Music provides exceptional faculty instruction to students of all abilities.

Students of all ages have the opportunity to participate in student recitals, juried recitals, honors recitals, or studio classes. Recitals are held at our Westmoreland Circle and Glen Echo Park locations, featuring our 9-foot Blüthner grand piano (Westmoreland Circle) or our Steinway grand piano (Glen Echo Park), as solo or accompanying instruments. Please see Student Opportunities for more information.

Washington Conservatory of Music expects all students and parents to behave in a way that is conducive to a nurturing musical environment where teaching and learning can flourish. The continuity of regular weekly attendance enables students to benefit most fully from lessons with our faculty members. Each student brings unique goals. Progress is measured on an individual basis. Please review our General Conduct and Attendance Policies and consult your teacher with any questions.

Please see Tuition & Fees.