What should I expect when arriving for the first lesson?

When you arrive at AJ’s Music Factory, you may park on either side of the driveway or on the north side of 27th Street (next to our pine trees). Take the sidewalk that winds around the left side of our home to the studio door. Have a seat in our waiting room and your instructor will come to get you at your lesson time. Binders, books and materials will be ready for you at the lesson. Parents are always welcome in the waiting room, or they may choose to run errands as we have Target, Aldi and Hy-Vee all within 5 minutes from the studio.

May I drop off my children at the same time for their lessons?

If you have siblings scheduled back-to-back for their music lessons, you may drop them off at the same time. Michael’s students may wait in the waiting room, and Andrea’s students are welcome to come into the studio at the same time. The studio always has an iPad with music games and musician-themed books to keep students busy. A second keyboard is also available for practice or playing Piano Maestro.

Do we need an instrument to start lessons?

Yes — a well-made instrument is the heart of a great music experience. It inspires practice, helps you progress, and makes music-making enjoyable. Think of it like sports: starting basketball with a half-deflated ball wouldn’t be much fun — the same goes for learning music.

Do you offer performance opportunities?

We create performance opportunities that are both engaging and enjoyable for performers and audiences alike. Our aim is to foster an encouraging atmosphere that eases the pressure on performers, allowing them to grow their skills and enjoy the art of performing in a relaxed, supportive setting. We offer a minimum of three performance opportunities for all students including:

• Our annual “Boos and Brews” Halloween inspired show at 3rd Act Craft Brewery. Click here for a short recap of this event.

• Holiday themed recital in December held at Resurrection Lutheran, Woodbury

• Vocal student showcase on a premier performance stage with state-of-the-art sound and lighting. Take an inside peek into this show.

• Spring recital in May at Resurrection Lutheran in Woodbury. Some past themes include Disney+, Pop and Rock Showcase, Music in Movies and Tunes ‘n Trivia.
  

How much should my child practice?

Here’s the simple answer: If you want to get better at your instrument, you need to play it. Preferably daily.

Practice time can vary depending on your child’s age, goals, and schedule. Generally, consistent, focused practice is more important than long sessions. For younger beginners, 10–15 minutes a day can build good habits. As skills develop, gradually increasing to 20–30 minutes daily helps steady progress. We recommend setting a regular practice routine that fits comfortably into your child’s day to keep it enjoyable and productive.

Also, please remember that having a comfortable, welcoming space for practice is essential. Students won’t go down to a dingy basement with an out-of-tune piano to practice. Create a safe, happy space for practicing.

Should I help my child practice?

In the beginning stages of lessons, absolutely. Parental involvement is crucial to success in lessons. Students will need help to access assignments, find hand positions, read instructions, etc. Even if you don’t have a background in music, just lending an ear and sitting with them will make an enormous difference in your child’s progress. Be their supporter and cheerleader!

Do you offer trial lessons?

We don’t offer trial lessons because it’s difficult to get a true sense of progress or connection in just one session. Over the years, our reputation has been built on consistent, long-term instruction, and we’ve found that students and families get the most benefit when they commit to a few lessons to really experience our approach.

How long until a spot opens from your waitlist?

This process can be a bit tricky to navigate because there are many variables. When a spot opens, we start at the top of the waitlist and work our way down. However, often students have already found another instructor or the available time slot doesn’t work for them, so we move on to the next person in line. As a result, someone who is fifth on the list may actually become first. We recommend signing up for the waitlist to have the best chance of joining our studio when a spot becomes available.