So you've decided to pick up a new instrument. CONGRATULATIONS! Now what? It's exiting to pick up a new skill but knowing where and how to start can be overwhelming. Let me preface this by saying the best way to get started is to... get started. Book your first lesson and GO. So now that you've booked your first lesson, what do you need to bring? How should you prepare?
Here is your checklist:
Voice/Singing
-Audio recorder (your smartphone is fine)
-Two, three-ring binders
-Sticky tabs, you'll thank yourself later.
-If you don't yet read music, enroll in our free Music Theory 1 class.
-Select at least one song to present in the lesson. This song should be a slow to moderate tempo and have a simple melody. Why? You'll have enough to think about in the lesson as you learn to produce your singing voice differently. Your song should allow you to focus on technique and not leave you worrying about the melody and keeping up with the tempo quite yet. My go-to for students who don't know what to bring is "Smile" by Charlie Chapman from Modern Times.
-Bring two copies, one for you, one for the accompanist/teacher, hole-punched, one in each binder. Find sheet music in a comfortable key for you. If you print music out from www.musicnotes.com, you can chose the key and play it first to test if it'll be a good fit. Can't read music yet? That's okay, still print two copies and bring them along and get to know the melody and lyrics well!
Dive in and don't be shy. Be patient with yourself; the first stages may be the most difficult. Stick with it, practice, and you will see results.
Other Instruments
-Audio recorder (your smartphone is fine)
-If you don't yet read music, enroll in our free Music Theory 1 class. -With the exception of the piano, please bring your instrument along. You may also use our studio violin and guitar, both are adult-sized.
Violins/Viola/Cello: pottersviolins.com
Pianos: Leesburg Steinway. Also, ask us about having a piano donated.
Other instruments: Amazon.com or www.chucklevins.com
Rentals: Jordan Kitt's Music
That's it. Your teacher will introduce learning materials in the lesson and depending on their lesson plan, may suggest materials to print or purchase after your first lesson.
Dive in and don't be shy. Be patient with yourself; the first stages may be the most difficult. Stick with it, practice, and you will see results.