FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
  Do I have to re-register?

All students are required to register prior to beginning lessons in the Fall semester. Students electing to enroll for the full year do not need to re-register in the Spring. Students registered only for the Fall Semester must re-register for the Spring Semester. All students must register separately for the Summer term.

Can I register at any time, even after a semester has started?

Yes. Bloomingdale offers rolling admissions which allow students to register at any time during the year.

Do I have to register for the entire semester?

The Fall and Spring semesters consist of 17 total lessons. When you register, you are committing to the remainder of the lessons in the current semester. The exception is a Bloomingdale Season Ticket which allows adult students to purchase six one-hour lessons per semester. Season Ticket lessons are scheduled directly between the student and faculty member.

Is my child old enough to study privately?

The age to begin private study differs from child to child. Children who are four may be ready to begin with a program such as Suzuki training. Many five year olds are ready to start private lessons. In any event, the earlier your child is exposed to music the better! Children in early childhood music classes have an easier time learning music later on. Please see our early childhood music section for a complete listing of classes.

Can I register for semi-private lessons?

Bloomingdale does not offer semi-private lessons since we believe that private lessons allow teachers to focus their approach on the learning goals of each individual student. Group lessons for the young beginner are available for students who prefer a classroom atmosphere.

Do I need to buy an instrument?

In most cases, students need to have the instrument that they are studying in order to practice between lessons. Please see our Instrument Discovery section for price guidelines and other considerations. Bloomingdale studios, all with pianos, are available free-of-charge for current students of the school, subject to availability.

What if my child doesn’t like his/her instrument?

In many cases, an alternate class or lesson can be arranged and will improve a child’s learning experience. If it is necessary to withdraw from classes, a 75% refund will be given if withdrawal is within the first two lessons. No refunds will be given after two lessons.

Do we follow the public school vacation schedule?

Although Bloomingdale’s schedule is set to roughly correspond to the public school schedule, there are differences in the calendars. Please check our calendar page for a complete listing of Bloomingdale’s closings.

What is Suzuki training and how is it different than regular lessons?

Suzuki training is a method that emphasizes ear training and parent involvement with students. Originating in Japan, the Suzuki method allows students to learn an instrument at an early age through the recognition of sounds and rhythms rather than focusing on note-reading skills. At Bloomingdale School of Music, Suzuki lessons are available for violin, cello, and flute. Parents of Suzuki students are expected to sit in on lessons and assist in the instruction between lessons.

What instrument is best for a beginner?

While there is no definite answer to this question, some instruments do have certain physical requirements. Piano, and string instruments, are good choices for younger children. Children age 12 and up can begin lessons on most instruments. Please see our Instrument Discovery section for further information.

Do I have to audition?

Auditions are never required for regular study at Bloomingdale School of Music. We believe that all people have musical ability and our doors are open to all who wish to study here.

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