Below are some commonly asked questions regarding lessons at the Renaissance School of Music. If you don't find the answer to your question below, please contact us. We're happy to help.

• How long is each lesson? Do they happen once a week?
• How long are the lesson terms and when do they run?
• Where can I purchase my books and supplies?
• Can I pay for lessons weekly?
• If I miss a lesson do I still pay?
• My teacher has missed a lesson. Will I still have to pay?
• Can I change teachers? Can I change instruments?
• What happens if I drop out?
• Can I work towards exams?
• Are there any student performances?
• I'm an adult. Do you offer beginner lessons?
• Do you offer any group lessons?
  
  
  

Typically, each lesson is a half hour in length. Most beginning students find that half an hour of instruction provides enough material to guide practice sessions until the next lesson. The lessons are held once a week, at the same time each week. We guarantee 25 minutes of teaching for each half hour session.

There are two terms of lessons, a Fall/Winter term which runs alongside the Limestone District School Board year (September to June), and a summer term which runs for eight weeks (in July and August). Refer to the Policies and Calendar document for the dates for the 2007/08 term.

Students purchase their own books and supplies, based on their individual lesson requirements and studied material. Renaissance Music always stocks a full range of lesson materials in our retail store. Teachers will recommend specific materials to students when they begin lessons. Renaissance is happy to offer a student discount of 5% on all books and supplies purchased in the store.

When signing up for lessons, students reserve a studio time each week with a teacher. In order to secure this spot when registering, students are required to pay for the term with either a lump-sum payment or a set of post-dated cheques. For more information, refer to the Registration Information and Fees page.

Yes. When registering, you reserve a studio time for your lesson. This time is held specifically for you, each week. For this reason, lessons where the student is absent are not made up or refunded.

No. Students do not have to pay for lessons where the teacher is absent. Teachers will make every effort to make up the lesson at a later time. If at the end of the term, a lesson has been missed, the student will be issued a refund.

Changing teachers or instruments depends on availability and scheduling. All changes must be approved by the director before they can be made. We will make every effort to accommodate your requests.

If you intend to stop taking lessons, you must give the School of Music notice of your intention to stop. You must give the School four weeks notice before stopping, or you will be subject to a penalty equalling the amount of four lessons. The remaining amount or remaining post-dated cheques will be refunded. Being absent from lessons does not constitute notice. Refer to the Policies & Calendar document for more information.

Definitely. We have teachers who specialize in preparing students for taking the Royal Conservatory of Music exams. When registering, just notify the School of Music that you'd like to work towards exams.

Yes. The Renaissance School of Music holds a series of student recitals each year, in December and June. Students can work to prepare unaccompanied or accompanied selections for public performance. Participation is optional.

Yes, we offer lessons to students of all ages. Since our classes are one-on-one, instructors can tailor each lesson to the age and ability level of each student.

Yes, we offer workshops and small group classes, as well as children's summer camps. Refer to the Additional Programs page for more information.