Individual lesson study forms the core of our curriculum. This one-to-one relationship with a caring, professional instructor combined with a commitment to regular practice enables students to engage in the process of acquiring the technical and musical skills necessary for mastery of their chosen instrument. All students are encouraged to supplement the private lesson experience with musicianship and ensemble opportunities to broaden their total musical understanding.
Most Academy of Music students receive instruction from music teachers who follow a calendar with two 16-week semesters. Music lessons are taught in the Academy building at 100 Water Street and at other locations. Students will be informed of the location of their lessons during registration.
Academy of Music students may also receive instruction from Lawrence Conservatory of Music faculty or student teachers. Conservatory faculty and student teachers teach in the Music-Drama Center of Lawrence University.
Individual instruction is available on the following instruments:
| Cello | Baritone | Oboe |
| Viola | Bassoon | Saxophone |
| Violin | Clarinet | Trumpet |
| String Bass | Flute | Trombone |
| Classical Guitar | French Horn | Tuba |
| Piano | Organ | Percussion |
| Voice |
Please call the Academy of Music at (920) 832-6632 to request information on music lessons, or submit a request online.
Returning student registration form
Group Piano Lessons
Group piano lessons can be an excellent approach to beginning piano study. This setting allows students to learn from their peers as well as the instructor and provides a highly motivated environment for the study of music.
Classes are taught in groups of three or four similar-age students in the brand-new-state-of-the-art Clavinova digital keyboard lab. Students wear headphones to communicate with the instructor and to work in groups. Emily Robida, instructor for the course and certified in Orff Schulwerk Level II, will utilize concepts of movement in music to enhance the student’s knowledge away from the piano and to build a strong rhythmic foundation. Instruction includes individual concentration on technique and hand position.
Due to the group nature of the class, make-ups are not possible (unless canceled by teacher or Academy). Students are expected to practice any assigned materials they may have missed in order to stay on track with the rest of the group.
A one-year enrollment commitment is required, with the intention of the program to be an enrollment of two consecutive years. Upon completion of the two-year track, students will be placed with private instructors if so desired. Placement cannot be guaranteed if students do not finish the two-year curriculum.
An adult group piano class is also offered for beginners and "rusty" experienced players.
Teacher |
Emily Robida, NCTM |
| When | Wednesdays; specific times TBA |
| Where | Lawrence Academy of Music, classroom #14 |
| Fee | $352 per year (16, 45-minute group lessons), payable in installments |
| Register | Call the Academy at 920-832-6632 or register online. |
Piano Lab Class
The Piano Lab Class offers a special opportunity for beginning piano students in second grade to study with Mary Van De Loo assisted by Lawrence University Conservatory of Music piano pedagogy students. Call the Academy office at 920-832-6632 for class specifics and requirements.
When |
Meets weekly for one hour of group instruction and one 30 minute private lesson, Mondays, 4:30-5:30 pm. |
| Location | Music-Drama Center, Lawrence University. |
| Fee | $150 per 10-week semester |
| Register | Call the Academy at 920-832-6632 or register online. |
Performance represents an essential part of a student's musical growth. Students are urged to take advantage of opportunities to perform and to listen to others perform. Academy performances include departmental recitals, all-student recitals, honors recitals, faculty recitals, master classes, "informances" and numerous performances by all our ensembles during the year. Most are free or at very low admission cost and families are strongly encouraged to attend as many as possible.
