Please select the appropriate Music Major to see details regarding individual instrument and ensemble course of study:
Private Lessons for Music Majors
All entering students audition for the faculty who then determine placement into class or private lessons.
Private lessons are offered in piano, organ, voice, composition, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone, horn, trumpet, trombone, euphonium, tuba, percussion, harp, violin, viola, cello, double bass and guitar.
Private study includes studio classes, usually weekly, which provide students an opportunity to perform for their peers in an informal setting.
The length of lessons (half period/full period) will be determined by the faculty based upon the student's ability level and commitment of time to practice.
The majority of students have full period lessons which require two to four hours of daily practice in order to derive maximum benefit.
Where appropriate, a student may take private lessons beyond the requirements of their major upon payment of an additional fee, subject to faculty availability and approval of the Director of Music.
At the end of each semester, juries are held for all students taking private lessons. These evaluations by Department Faculty can help determine semester grades.
It is the policy of the Interlochen Arts Academy that any student studying string, wind or percussion privately is required to participate in either Band or Orchestra. Ensemble experience is an integral part of the lesson structure, thus, all students must be enrolled in both private study and either of the two large ensembles concurrently.
In addition to their opportunities to perform in regular student recitals, advanced students may audition to present a solo recital.
Private Lessons for Non-Music Majors
Any Academy student may audition to take private lessons in voice or keyboard depending on teacher availability, please review fee chart for additional cost. Only music majors may take private lessons on string, wind or percussion instruments.
Students who do not meet the requirements for private study in piano and organ may enroll in class lessons. Upon reaching a sufficient level of commitment and proficiency, they may be recommended for advancement to private lessons.
