Group Class or Private Lesson in Music: Which is best for my child?
Course Catalog
Both are Beneficial with Similarities and Differences based on Goals
Austin Arts Academy provides group classes and private lesson options to learn Music.
Your child has expressed an interest in learning to play piano and now you are looking for options, which can be overwhelming and confusing.
Since you know he or she wants to play the piano, the next decision is choosing whether to book a private lesson or sign up for a group class.
So you might be asking yourself, which is best for my child?
And the truth is, both are beneficial!
There are similar goals achieved in both private and group, but there are different goals that are specific to each type of environment as well.
Below we have listed the goals achieved in both private lessons and group classes at Austin Arts Academy, breaking it down to components that will assist you in deciding which would be most appropriate for your child.
At Austin Arts Academy, we offer Music lessons and group classes for Preschool, kids/teens and adults. Instruments include Piano, Guitar, Ukulele, Voice, Violin, and more.
Read: Fun & Engaging Classes At Any Age: Fall Classes 2022 to learn more!
Keep reading below the graphic to go deeper into each component…
Group Classes vs Private Lessons Goals Achieved
Similarities:
Both Group & Private…
Make Music with Fun & Engaging Teachers
When students at any age are having fun and engaged in the learning process, they gain so much from the experience.
Students work towards a goal with fun and engaging teachers, who allow them to explore their natural talents and enjoy their gift of expression in a low pressure setting, whether that’s a private lesson or a group class at Austin Arts Academy.
Keep Reading:
Play an Instrument
Above we expand upon the process of learning music and its associated benefits. Learning an instrument includes the added bonus of improved posture, time management, reading skills, coordination, listening skills, concentration, mathematics, and information processing.
These skills are all obtainable in either a private lesson or a group class at Austin Arts Academy. We offer two opportunities per year for students to showcase their talents during our Spring and Winter recitals.
<<< Read more about the Austin Arts Academy Recital Experience…
Apply techniques learned
While implementing the methods of learning to play an instrument, both private lessons or group classes provide a setting where your child can apply the techniques they have learned and practiced, supporting the overall outcome.
In both our private lessons and group classes at Austin Arts Academy, we use curriculum tailored to help learn technique in a fun and engaging way. Group classes utilize curriculum like Prodigies, Keynotes and Piano Pyramid. Private lessons utilize curriculum and supplemental material from Piano Pronto and SupersonicsPlus.com
Austin Arts Academy Students Apply Techniques Learned in Group Piano Class using the KiddyKeys curriculum.
Differences:
Group Classes Only…
Learn in a Setting with Friends
Learning in a setting with friends gives students the opportunity to encourage and motivate each other by sharing unique ideas, new perspectives and individual strategies.
Students who learn together during group classes at Austin Arts Academy have increased interpersonal skills, such as listening and problem solving, which leads to an increased retention and deeper understanding of what’s being taught.
Participate in Collaboration & Ensembles with Others
While each person has their individual part, group classes incorporate that part into a whole by participating in collaboration and ensembles with others.
The importance of cooperation and teamwork is emphasized during group classes at Austin Arts Academy, which allows students to create beautiful music together by bringing all of their parts together.
Longer Duration of Time to Practice Together
Group classes are generally longer in duration, which allows for more time to practice skills, techniques and methods together in a structured setting.
Time is precious and our group classes at Austin Arts Academy provide focused time to effectively learn and practice, freeing up time outside of class for other activities and time with family.
Confidence Performing in Front of Others
During group classes, students routinely practice and play in front of their peers, improving their confidence performing in front of others.
Whether it’s in front of family, at a special event, playing in the school band or performing at the Austin Arts Academy recitals, those who have participated in group classes feel more confident performing in a public setting.
Students at Austin Arts Academy have fun working together to find matching musical symbols during our Preschool Group Class.
Private Lessons Only…
1:1 Instruction with Personalized Lesson Plans
Private lessons at Austin Arts Academy provide direct instruction based on the students specific goals.
Flexible Schedule and Location of Lessons
At Austin Arts Academy, private lessons are scheduled at a time and location that is convenient for you, whether that’s in your home, virtually, or at our studio.
Siblings practice together during a private lesson with Austin Arts Academy
Establish Your Child’s Goals, Then Decide Which is Best.
Determining your child’s musical goals will help you choose whether Group Classes, Private Lessons or a combination of both are appropriate for your child.
<<<Read more on Goal Setting with Kids…
Your child is ready to learn, so don’t waste any more time searching! Music lessons and classes provide opportunities to learn more than just music.
Written by Melissa Wolken
Contributing Writer, Culture Curator, and Admin Team Member
At Austin Arts Academy, we change the way you learn Music, Art, & Dance from rigid or boring to fun and engaging-an experience students will love at any age.
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Watch our Spring May 2022 Virtual Recital HERE
We invite you to stay connected with us on social media where we share videos and posts every week showing what our students are learning, both in private lessons and in our group classes.
