Lessons

Because children benefit from developmentally appropriate musical study, we consider a number of developmental factors when recommending instruments. Below are general guidelines for developmental progress, along 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. Acoustic pianos are recommended.
  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: 4+ (Suzuki violin, viola, and cello); 7+ (traditional violin, 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, and fun as children perform in a recorder choir. Individual lessons are also available.
  Recommended age: 5+
• Acoustic guitars with nylon strings are available in smaller sizes and are recommended for young children over electric guitars.
  Recommended age: 7+
• Drum set requires complexity and control in fine hand and wrist movement and specific rhythmic capabilities. Other percussion instruments include vibraphone, timpani, and hand drums, and can be studied with teacher recommendation.
  Recommended age: 8+
• 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 distinct instrument from the guitar, the ukulele has fewer strings (4), different chord shapes and patterns, and a smaller range. It requires less finger strength than guitar, and is typically less expensive to purchase. The Young Yukes class provides a social environment that fosters friendship, teamwork, and fun as children perform together.
  Recommended age: 8+
• Wind & brass instruments are not recommended for young children 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 nationally accredited community music school, Washington Conservatory of Music provides exceptional faculty instruction to students of all ages and skill levels.

Students of all ages have regular opportunities to participate in student recitals, juried recitals, honors recitals, and studio classes. Recitals are held at both our Westmoreland Circle and Glen Echo Park locations, and feature 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. Regular weekly attendance enables students to benefit fully from lessons with our faculty members. We recognize that each student brings unique goals to musical study, and 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.