Early Start Lessons

These special programs allow the younger student to experience the thrill of individualized instruction while building the foundation of coordination and healthy technique within a specialized curriculum. Early Start faculty members have extensive experience and interest in teaching the younger student. Programs vary by instrument and age. Please see detailed descriptions below or call (585) 454-4596 for more information.

Guitar
Ralph Scicchitano, Tim Shannon, John Wiesenthal, Instructors
ages 5-9
Lessons are arranged by appointment with the Dean's Office.

Hochstein's unique program takes children from first notes to solo and ensemble performances. Musicianship skills including singing and note reading, as well as guitar technique, are built through a child-friendly repertoire. 30-minute lessons are supplemented by a 50-minute group class. Let us advise you about obtaining an appropriate instrument for your child. Please call (585) 454-4596.

FEE: $18 registration fee. $28* fee per lesson. Schedules and fees are arranged by appointment with the Dean's Office. With enrollment in Early Start Guitar, families pay $45 per quarter for Foundations in Music or Children's Dance, and reduced fees for Choir or other ensembles.

*Reduced fees are available on a sliding scale, based on household income. We will be happy to discuss your child's musical education. Please call (585) 454-4596.

 
Piano for Children
ages 5-6
Lessons arranged by appointment with the Dean's Office

This program introduces young students to the piano in a private lesson environment. Note reading, finger coordination and beginning musicianship skills are taught through repertoire that is accessible and appealing to the younger student.Acoustic piano (or a digital piano with 88 full-size, weighted keys) in the home is required for piano lessons.

FEE: $18 registration fee; $25* fee per 30-minute lesson. For students enrolled in private lessons at Hochstein, families pay $45 per quarter for one Foundations in Music or Children's Dance, and reduced fees for Choir and other ensembles.

*Reduced fees are available on a sliding scale, based on household income. We will be happy to discuss your child's musical education. Please call (585) 454-4596.

Voice
ages 12-14
Lessons are arranged by appointment with the Dean's Office

The perfect opportunity for young students to build a foundation of healthy singing while learning basic musicianship skills. Fundamental audition preparation and techniques, for NYSSMA solo festival and others, are included. Faculty experienced in instructing young voices will assist students in proper breathing technique, note reading and singing vocal repertoire that is appropriate and healthful for the younger student. Hochstein reserves the right to recommend an alternative course of study if the student's voice is not yet mature enough to begin solo repertoire.

FEE: $18 registration fee; $25* fee per 30-minute lesson. For students enrolled in private lessons at Hochstein, families qualify for discounted rates for Choir, Music Theory and History courses, Dance, Orchestra and other ensembles.

*Reduced fees are available on a sliding scale, based on household income. We will be happy to discuss your child's musical education. Please call (585) 454-4596.