Things to remember when arranging a private instructor:

 1. Finding a willing instructor often takes a good bit of research, depending on the playing level of your child, scheduling, and cost.  Use our database, try calling a college near you for available instructors or music majors who teach private lessons (Carson-Newman College, University of Tennessee, Pellissippi Community College, Roan State Community College, Maryville College), or call your local music store (Lunsford’s, Rush's) since they often provide contacts.  You will most likely need to drive to the instructor’s home or studio, so find one convenient to your travels if possible!

 2. When a student is a beginner, often a proficient high school student is a worthy option for the first semester or two of band.  If a private instructor has a full schedule, ask if they can recommend one of their own advanced students until space is available. Advanced students often make great first instructors, are less expensive, and benefit from the experience of working with your child.  Perhaps try for a month of lessons with you observing the lesson and see if they have the needed maturity required.

 3. Some private instructors are capable of teaching a semester or two of a beginning student, even though the specific instrument is not their specialty.  At the end of this time period, move on to a more specialized instructor—a great option if your first choice is booked for the semester!  Be sure to mention the playing level of your student when discussing lesson options!

 4. Expect to pay at least $10 per half hour lesson, normally paid in advance.  Often the more qualified an instructor, the higher the lesson price will be.

 5. Private lessons should first reinforce what is taught in band (scales, technique, tone quality, etc.), then secondly expand the student's instrumental skills. This means that if your student is struggling with his or her band music, help with the music should come from the band director and the private instructor. Bring your band music and ask for help during private lessons if your child needs it!

 6. If you have difficulty finding a private instructor, notify your band director immediately so they can help you research.

Lesson requirements:

1. A weekly half hour lesson is the minimum requirement to participate in KCYB; anything less should be an occasional exception in scheduling (vacation, illness, etc.).

 2. Progress should be made.  If your child is not improving over the course of lessons, another instructor might be a better option. Talk to your band director if you feel like your child is not progressing well.  When in doubt, sit in the lesson and observe over the course of several weeks.  Note whether new material is being taught, what music is practiced, whether scales are sounding more consistent, and whether new concepts are presented.  The private instructor should provide patient one-on-one attention and specific help that cannot always be addressed during band rehearsal--make sure this is happening during lessons!

 3. Lessons are required during the band year (August thru May), through a student's sophomore year of high school. Beginning the junior year through the senior year of high school, lessons are still recommended, but not required.  Your instructor will appreciate open communication concerning activities that your child is involved in so that he or she can help meet goals.  Inform your instructor of upcoming chair placements, solo try-outs, or clinic auditions. A good instructor will be excited to help you meet challenging objectives!