FAQs
WHAT ARE THE QUALIFICATIONS OF THE TEACHERS?
Most of our teachers have received degrees in music from the nation's top collegiate programs. Our teachers are all experienced musicians and educators, chosen not only for their qualifications, but also for their ability to inspire and motivate our students. All teachers and staff have been screened through national criminal background checks.
WHAT IF MY CHILD STARTS LESSONS BUT DOESN'T LIKE IT?
It is not uncommon for a student to start out with one instrument, and then switch to another instrument that they enjoy more. We offer wide variety of instruments with a large and highly qualified teaching staff so there's something for everybody. We highly recommend students stick with lessons for at least three months because some time is needed for their skills and knowledge to start blossoming.
WHAT IF STUDENT AND TEACHER PERSONALITIES DON'T MESH?
One of the advantages of studying music at Music Makers of Western Springs is that in most cases, we have multiple teachers for each instrument. Sometimes a student needs a different teaching style, and we have the flexibility to accommodate this and place the student with the perfect teacher for them.
DO YOU OFFER LESSONS TO ADULTS?
Definitely! We are happy to teach adults at any age and at any level from beginning to advanced. Lessons are provided in a fun, low pressure environment. Our adult students simply aren't as eager as our younger students to be on camera!
CAN I SIT IN ON MY CHILD'S LESSONS?
We ask that parents discuss this with their child’s instructor.
What happens if I have to miss a lesson?
Please contact us if you need to miss or cancel a lesson for any reason. You can cancel your lesson directly on the Opus1 App; call/text us at 708-246-8222 or email us at info@musicmakerstudio.com.
If you cancel your lesson before 12:00pm on your lesson day, your teacher will prepare and send a LessonMate, within 48 hours after the regular lesson time.
If you cancel your lesson after 12:00pm or don’t show on your lesson day, you will forfeit your LessonMate lesson for the week.
You can read more about our Missed Lessons policy and an explanation of LessonMate HERE.
Do you offer rental instruments?
Music Makers offers keyboards and guitars as rentals at a cost of $25.00 per month. We do have a rent-to-own program as well, but you must tell us you are wanting to do that option or you will continue to be charged the rental fee each month. Please talk to someone in the office for more information. If you are interested in renting band instruments, we recommend calling Quinlan & Fabish, who supply to most of the local schools: 800-637-6872.
DO WE NEED A REAL PIANO AT HOME?
Although a real (acoustic) piano is usually best, it is not necessary to begin lessons. Many students begin with keyboards. The most important thing to know when renting or purchasing a keyboard is that it must have full-sized keys and be touch-sensitive (sound changes depending on how you play the keys). It is best to get a keyboard with at least 76 keys to ensure the student does not outgrow it too quickly. Whenever possible, a weighted action is preferred to non-weighted or semi-weighted action so that students can practice on an instrument that most closely resembles an acoustic piano.
HOW MUCH DO LESSONS COST?
$48 per 30 minute lesson held once a week (recommended for young beginners)
$72 per 45 minute lesson held once a week (recommended for teens and adults)
$96 per 60 minute lesson held once a week (recommended for the serious student)
There is a registration fee of $45 per student at enrollment