Frequently Asked Questions

What age can students begin?

We teach children, teens, and adults.

The best starting age depends on the instrument and the individual student. If you are unsure whether your child is ready, contact us and we can help.

What instruments do you teach?

Our available instruments depend on our current faculty.

Visit the Instruments page for the current list, then visit Faculty to meet the teachers who teach each instrument.

How long are lessons?

Lesson length depends on the student, teacher, instrument, and scheduling arrangement.

We can discuss the best lesson length when arranging your schedule.

When can I start?

Students may begin at any time during the year when a teacher has an available opening.

Red Barn operates in two 17-week semesters and generally follows the Amherst school calendar.

Students who begin after a semester has started are charged a prorated amount.

What happens after I sign up?

Start by submitting a Lessons Inquiry.

We will help confirm the instrument, teacher, and available lesson time. Your first lesson gives you an opportunity to meet your teacher before making a longer commitment.

After the fourth week, students who continue are asked to finish the semester.

What is your missed-lesson and make-up policy?

Students may receive up to two make-up lessons per semester for:

illness
snow or weather cancellations
cancellations made with at least 24 hours’ notice

Unused make-ups do not carry over to another semester.

If a scheduled make-up lesson is missed, it is not rescheduled.

Do students perform in recitals?

Yes. Recitals are an important part of learning music and building confidence.

Students are generally expected to participate in recitals after their first semester.

Do you teach adults?

Yes.

Adult students are welcome at Red Barn and may arrange lessons by the month or by the semester.

Beginners are welcome.

Do I need to own an instrument?

That depends on the instrument.

Some students already have an instrument, while others may need help choosing, buying, or renting one.

Please ask your teacher before purchasing an expensive instrument if you are unsure what to get.

Red Barn also has a Rentals page with information about available rental options.

Do you offer online lessons?

Online lesson availability depends on the teacher and the instrument.

Please ask about online lessons when submitting your inquiry.

How does scheduling work?

Lessons are scheduled directly according to teacher availability and the student’s schedule.

When you submit a Lessons Inquiry, tell us the days and times that work best for you.

We will help find an available teacher and lesson time.

What if my first teacher is not the right fit?

We can help arrange another teacher or provide a full refund.

Are scholarships available?

Yes.

Scholarships are available for students who need financial assistance. Please ask. We want music lessons to be accessible to anyone who wants to learn.

Still Have Questions?

Please contact us or submit a Lessons Inquiry. We will be happy to help.