The Music Academy’s String Program offers private lessons in violin, viola, cello, and classical guitar, as well as supplemental weekly violin group lessons. The string program believes that all children can learn to their potential when placed in an environment that includes clear instruction, an involved parent, and regular opportunities to listen and perform.
Beginning string students may have the opportunity for additional coachings with university students who are in pedagogy classes. Parents are required to attend all lessons and supervise daily home practice sessions. Group and solo performance opportunities are offered each semester and chamber music is available for advanced students. A summer chamber camp is held in the month of August.
Instruction is based on a combination of the methods of Shinichi Suzuki, Paul Rolland, and the experiences of the professional teachers. Instructors emphasize an easy and balanced approach to playing the instrument, with a wide range of repertoire, and strive to instill a sense of discipline and a love for music.
We are making plans to move to in-person lessons and recitals! Some instructors are opting to begin the year online, moving to virtual and hybrid options later. Weekly violin groups will have in-person and hybrid options. All participants over the age of 2 are still expected to wear masks for in-person activities. Due to the ever-changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is possible that instruction will shift back to online formats. New students should fill out the “interest" form below or contact us by email.
Interest Forms
Please contact us - We’re interested!
Child Interest Form Adult Interest Form
New Student Registration Forms
(For students who have been assigned a teacher and lesson length.)
Child Registration Form Adult Registration Form
Tuition: Contact Music Academy
Time: TBA/11 weeks per quarter
Location: In-person and online lesson platforms vary by teacher
Structure: 30-minute lessons (beginner), 45-minute lessons (intermediate), 60-minute lessons (advanced)
Instructor: Various
Tuition: Contact Music Academy
Time: TBA/11 weeks
Location: Ryan Center for the Musical Arts
Contact: Stacia Spencer
Registration
Current students register for each new academic year in late spring. Incoming new students fill out an "Interest” form first and will be directed to register when they have been assigned a teacher and lesson length.
Tuition
Tuition is paid by credit card in full at the beginning of each quarter. There are no refunds on tuition. Families who need assistance may apply for financial aid scholarships prior to fall quarter. Full-time benefits eligible Northwestern faculty and staff may apply for a discount each year as part of their benefits package.
Missed Lessons
String teachers are not obligated to make up lessons canceled by students and tuition will not be adjusted. If the teacher cancels a lesson, it will be made up. Parents are encouraged to trade lessons with other students when conflicts arise. Parents are responsible to give reasonable notice to their teacher in the event of a cancellation or traded lesson.
Dismissal
The Academy reserves the right to dismiss any student due to delinquent payment of tuition, frequent absences, failure to practice, behavioral problems, etc.
Late Arrivals
Please arrive on time to your lesson. Students who are late cannot be guaranteed their full lesson time. Teachers reserve the right to end a lesson early if a student arrives unprepared or without their books or instrument.
Weather Related Cancellations
In the event Northwestern closes for inclement weather, Academy lessons will also be canceled. Any classes or lessons canceled due to the official closing of the school will be rescheduled.
Performances
Quarter-end recitals are held throughout the year. Students are invited to perform.
COVID-19 Policy
Note: These protocols are subject to change at any time. Students and/or parents will be notified of any changes to COVID-19 policies and procedures.
All students, faculty, parents, and visitors are required to wear masks in shared indoor spaces, regardless of vaccination status.
Students must stay home if they or anyone in their immediate family has any of the following COVID-19 symptoms in the 72 hours before their lesson:
- Fever
- New or worsening cough
- Sore throat
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of taste or smell
- Chills or rigors
- New headache, neck ache or muscle pain not related to physical activity
- More than one episode of vomiting or diarrhea
Teachers may reschedule online lessons for those unable to visit campus.
Note: recital dates and times subject to change.
Download the 2021-22 Calendar
Financial aid applications are accepted in the fall for children (not adults) with completed application and the required income documentation. Students who have received financial aid in the past should complete this application for the 2021-22 academic year:
Financial Aid Application
Due to COVID-19, we may not be able to offer financial aid to new students. If you are a new student interested in receiving financial aid, please contact musicacademy@northwestern.edu.