Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much do lessons cost?
A. We have different tuition options for the Mattoon Studio, Arthur Location, and St. john’s Lutheran School. Please contact us for more information on tuition.
Q. How often are the lessons?
A. Music lessons are offered one time per week, or more depending on the goals of each student. There will always be 4 -5 music lessons a month with the exception of December.
Q. Why Choose Chris K Music?
A. We dedicate %100 of our time to continuing education and learning the best strategies to work with every student’s need, regardless of age or situation. The Chris K Music Studio in Mattoon, IL is a home studio, meaning there is no added pressure of buying merchandise or equipment from a store, and we work with students to pick out instruments, books, and supplies that are in the best interest of any student. Several of our students become members of Choirs, Praise Teams, Bands, Honor Bands, All-State, Top Chair in Ensembles, College, and even professional performing careers. Our experience in the music field is used to best train musicians for many scenarios. St. John’s Students have the opportunity to learn how to perform in music ensembles to equip them to become leaders in many religious settings. Our well rounded program will suit the needs of even the most experienced musicians.
Q. Do You Offer Make-Up Lessons
A. Yes we do. Many music instructors and stores do not offer make-up lessons, but we know that emergencies happen, students become ill, and even our instructor becomes ill from time to time. Make-up lessons are available during the week as long as there are openings during the week or weekend.
Q. What is the best age to start music lessons?
A. Adults may start at any age. For children, there are three factors to consider:
- Peak Developmental Times – general to all children
- Mental/Emotional Maturity – specific to child
- Physical Maturity – specific to child
Q. Can I help my child practice even though I do not have a musical background?
A. Yes. This is highly encouraged, even if you don’t have a musical background. You can attend your child’s lessons and learn right along with the student. Even by simply monitoring your child’s practice and insuring they are performing their exercises/songs as the teacher indicated will help them progress.
Q. How long does it take to learn an instrument?
A. With regular and consistent practice, noticable results can be accomplished in 3 to 6 months depending on the student and instrument. Of course many factors need to be considered including the amount of lesson and practice throughout the week, ability, talent, determination, goals, etc. Most students take lessons on a long-term basis because they really enjoy it, and the more they improve, the more fun they have.
Q. Do I need an instrument to practice?
A. It is recommended to have an instrument, but you can start lessons with low cost guitars, band instruments, snare drum or practice pad, and small electric keyboards to get you started. However, students who start lessons on a real piano, full 5 piece drumset with cymbals, solid top guitars (wood not plastic), and higher quality band instruments generally are more motivated to practice and therefore have a more successful experience.
Q. Where do I rent band instruments?
A. There are several stores that offer instrumental rental service and repairs, The Music Shoppe in Champaign, IL and Samuel Music in Effingham, IL. The Music Shoppe also partners with smaller music stores to offer instrumental rentals throughout the area. Music instruments also may be purchased from these companies or sites online.
Q. How often should I tune my piano, drums, guitar?
A. This varies from instrument to instrument. Guitar should be tuned almost everytime its played. Drums need to be tuned a minimum of 1 or 2 times a month depending on how much it is used, and Piano should be tuned a minimum of once a year. More frequent tuning (4 – 6 times per year) may be needed depending on how often the piano is played and how well the temperature is controlled.
We currently offer guitar repair, piano tuning and drum repair/tuning.
For more information on tuning and repairs for all instruments, please contact us for a quote.
