Adult Instruction

Many adults will ask, "Is it too late for me to learn an instrument?". At Pakachoag, we believe it is never too late (although one's musical progress may offer more of a challenge than a child's, depending upon one's musical background).

As teachers, we recognize that adults learn differently than do children. This means we may choose different method books to use with an adult student; we might rearrange priorities with regard to the order and scope with which we address the various elements of music; and we might guide the development of the student’s physical technique differently. In addition, an adult student will often progress at a different pace than a child. If the adult has studied previously as a child or teenager, this will also impact the teacher’s approach.

The one-on-one relationship provided by private instruction provides the perfect setting for adapting teaching style and methods to the needs and interests of each learner – younger or older.

“I love teaching adults because you can talk about the music in order to discover what the composer wanted in the composition. It can be very gratifying to help the adult student gain confidence and ultimately discover creative abilities through lessons.” -- Janeen Baker, Piano Teacher

“This is more exciting than I thought it would be!” A passing comment made by Bob Thebeau, Adult Piano Student of Inna Muravnik, after leaving his second lesson in June 2003.

Summer Workshops

Pakachoag Music School offers varying programs each summer. These will often include adult-specific workshops, usually meeting once a week. Past adult-specific summer progrms have included:

I. Introductory Musicianship:

Understand the basics of note reading, key signatures, rhythmic patterns and basic chord structure. (Purchase of book req.)

II. Vocal Technique & Sightsinging (with success):

Would you like to improve your singing voice, but don't have time for private lessons? Then this is the workshop for you! As a participant in this six-week course you will learn proper relaxation, breathing & tonal production to keep your voice healthy and beautiful. Learn strategies for successful sightsinging. By learning how to take proper care of your voice through correct vocal development and performance style, you wil be able to sing more beautifully without tiring or straining. We will also explore successful strategies for improving sight-singing, resonance and ensemble blending.

III: Blues Jam For Adults

Have you always wanted to play the Blues?
Here’s your chance.
Join Amy Matherly (fiddle) and Chris Matherly
(guitar) for this introductory course in Blues
tunes, style and improvisation.
Players of any instrument who play at a
beginning through intermediate level are invited
to join.

 

PIANO

VIOLIN

SAXOPHONE

RECORDER

ORGAN

VIOLA

CLARINET

TRUMPET

VOICE

GUITAR

OBOE