Private lessons Private lessons are offered on all instruments and at all levels. Excellent string training is available through traditional study or through the Suzuki program. The private teacher will guide students in their solo studies and advise on preparation for participation in ensembles. Recorder Class and Introductory Workshop for Beginning Trumpet are excellent preparation for private study in wind and brass instruments (see p 14). Flute, oboe, bassoon, and clarinet students will also have a wide range of small and large ensemble opportunities (see page 26). I t is recommended that vocal students wait until approximately age 12-13, when the voice matures. In the meantime, students may take advantage of the chorus program, which offers a sound approach to readiness for private training (see p. 37) In addition, special discounts are offered to students who enroll at Longy for private study (please see registration policies on p. 52.)
Private Lesson Placement
Private (studio) lessons are offered at all levels. Interested students will be auditioned by the department chair who oversees the desired instrument. (Beginners will be scheduled for a personal interview.) The department chair will consider the age, level, scheduling needs, and learning style of each individual student in order to make the appropriate teacher assignment. A semester of lessons is 15 weeks. The teacher and family will decide on the appropriate length of lesson (30 minutes, 45 minutes, or 60 minutes) for the age and level. Families should note that the same procedure applies for a request to change the studio teacher. The department chair must be consulted and involved in all concerns and requests for new teachers. For information about auditions and to schedule an interview, please contact or call 617.876.0956 x650.
Performance Evaluation Week The spring semester will consist of 14 private lessons, with a scheduled performance evaluation during the 10th week. A panel of faculty members will provide written evaluations of the student's current level of playing. Evaluations are a valuable tool for students to receive feedback on their playing while providing an incentive to make substantial progress during the year.
Solo Performance Opportunities Students who register for private lessons will have the full advantage of being part of a peer group through their teacher's studio, as well as through other class and ensemble studies offered at Longy.
Performance goals can be achieved throughout the year in a wide variety of settings:
Preparatory assemblies are scheduled on many Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings at 8:45 AM .
Lunchtime concerts and evening recitals are opportunities for students who are ready to offer the most polished performances. These are scheduled in Pickman Concert Hall on designated dates.- Musical Evenings are scheduled throughout the year on Wednesday evenings, and are open to all students-preparatory, continuing studies, and conservatory students- with recommendation of their teachers . These are held in the intimate setting of the Wolfinsohn Room.
Departmental recitals are open to all Longy students, and are scheduled by department chairs.
Departmental master classes are held periodically, and advanced students may participate with recommendation of teacher and department chair. Some recent guests artists have been world-renowned violinist Pamela Frank, pianist Joel Fan, and cellist Matt Haimovitz.
Young Performers Certificate Program students are offered a special recital series in Pickman Concert Hall as an opportunity to fulfill their performance requirements.
The annual Concerto Competition has a junior and senior category, and winners are invited to perform with the Longy Youth Chamber Orchestra.
