The McNamara School of Irish Music

Q: What is the earliest age a child can start? 

A: The youngest child that I have started was 4. But, by 5 things are a little easier for them. The biggest contributing factors to the success of a child starting violin at an early age is their ability to concentrate, their hand eye coordination, and their finger dexterity. If you think your child might be too young to start violin consider enrolling them in group music classes. It is never too early to encourage a love of music in a child, and the concepts that they will learn in music class will help them with violin when they are old enough

Q: What is the oldest age a person can start?

A: It is never too late to learn an instrument! Many adults learn about Irish music later in life and decide they want to play. We have classes specifically tailored to adult students. When signing up for classes just look for those!

Q: What do I need for my First Class?

A: You will need your instument and a notebook.

Q: What Books do I need? 

A: You will be provided with the school curriculum book that corresponds with the class you are in. 
 

Q: How often and for how long should I practice? 

A: If you want to progress on your instrument you should strive to play every day. For the average beginning student they should be practicing anywhere from 15-30 minutes. More advanced students will find the need to practice 30-60 minutes. Keep in mind that the goal of practicing is to make sure you have learned what we worked on in your last lesson, that way at your next lesson we can work on something new. I understand busy schedules and some days you might have more time to practice than others. But, even if you play for 5 or 10 minutes that is still better than not playing that day!