TEXT OR CALL: (626) 357-0073

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long until I can read music?

    The student learns to read music from their first lesson. Just like reading literature, as their skills improve the music they read becomes more complex. Depending on the practice habits of the student, students can successfully read basic pieces of music unaided within 8 weeks.

  • How long does it take for my child to sound “good”?

    It really depends on many factors. For example, a total beginner can be playing two-handed piano pieces in 8-12 weeks. The most important factors are the child’s ability to consistently practice and the pace in which the student is willing to progress.

  • Am I too old to learn an instrument?

    We have had adult students work with us into their 80s. At no time is a student too old to learn music. It is just a matter of making the decision to make it a priority to have music in your life.

  • What is the first thing we study?

    Your teacher will assess your musical ability on the first lesson.  Depending on your level, your teacher will design a curriculum that fits your current ability.

  • Can I buy a couple lessons just to see if I like it?

    We want you to feel comfortable with your decision to take music lessons with our instructors. Our free trial lesson offers you the chance to experience our unique curriculum first hand with no obligation to buy.

  • Can I take my lessons every other week?

    For children, unfortunately no, this is not something we recommend as students need weekly interaction with their teacher. However, we do offer a flexible scheduling plan for our busy adult students.

  • Do you teach special needs students?

    Yes, we have teachers who have had great experiences working with special needs children.

  • I can only do weekday mornings. Are you open?

    Please ask about availability, we will do our best to accommodate you.

  • Do you have a teacher for my hyper-active child?

    With our wide variety of instructors available, we have a teacher that can match any personality type.  Allow our front office to pair you or your child with the teacher that best fits that personality.

  • Will you help me get into a prestigious university or conservatory as a music major?

    Our teachers work with you specifically to meet your goals.  If you are thinking of applying to a full-time music school or conservatory, our music college prep courses and extensive repertoire training can get you ready for auditions and your future studies.

  • Which instrument is the easiest to learn?

    Every instrument has its own difficulty level, but we recommend piano for beginning musicians. It also lays a great foundation to transfer into another instrument.

  • How do I study the music I am most interested in? Is there a pathway of classical works I will need to learn first?

    We want you to be happy with your lessons.  That is why we offer classes in many other musical styles besides classical including jazz, gospel, contemporary pop, and rock. Some students take a parallel path of studying classical along with with pop.

  • What should I bring to my first lesson?

    1) Your instrument, if you don’t have one we likely have a loaner you can use.  

    2) Any printed music you enjoy or would like to explore (if you are not a beginner).

    3) A list of goals and interests to share with your teacher.

    These things, while not necessary, will help your teacher customize lessons in a way that is most relevant to you.

  • Are you a full-time school?

    We are a full-time academy but that does not mean you are required to attend daily. Students are typically required to attend their lesson once a week.

  • Does the teacher pick the music I will have to learn or do I have a say in it?

    You and your instructor will work closely in choosing the music you would like to study.  Depending on your level, your teacher will design a curriculum based on your current ability, musical preference, and the core curriculum required to learn the instrument.

Common Misconceptions

  • I only like to play the music I am into

    No problem!  We can arrange a curriculum based upon your skill level and musical interests.

  • I’m too old for lessons

    We have had adult students work with us into their 80s.  At no time is a student too old to learn music. It is just a matter of making the decision to make it a priority to have music in your life.

  • I can't read music

    We all start somewhere!  Even if you’re a beginner, we can teach you the necessary skills needed to have a basic understanding of reading music.  With proper dedication, you will be reading music with ease no matter what your skill level!

  • My schedule is too crazy for weekly lessons

    We are open 7 days a week to accommodate almost any schedule.

  • My kids aren't old enough

    We begin our Pre-K program at 3 years of age to prepare the student’s in the fundamentals of music.  As they get older, they can transition into a variety of instruments including Piano, Violin and Guitar.

  • I get nervous in front of people

    Our lessons are private, one-on-one instruction so theres no need to worry about others! However, if you do decide to venture out, we offer monthly recitals and an awards recital every 6 months that we highly encourage you to participate in.

  • I dont like the instrument i chose

    No problem! We teach over 35 instruments varying from woodwinds to brass.  if you are not happy with your current instrument, we encourage you to try something else or add it to your repertoire.

  • I dont want to perform in front of people

    Our lesson are private, one-on-one instruction so theres no need to worry! However, if you do decide to venture out, we encourage participation in our monthly community concerts as well as our bi-annual awards recitals.

  • I have no talent

    Many first timers are under the notion that they lack an inability to perform and experience music as a performer.  Our experience has shown us that many people who believe they are not musically talented actually are!  With our Free Trial Music Lesson, we offer you opportunity to receive an assessment of your readiness for lessons.

  • Do you teach accordion?

    We do not teach accordion, but we do teach over 30 other instruments including ukulele, piano and cello.

  • "Its like a big family here. The teachers and staff are constantly encouraging me to be the best I can be. I dont know where I would be without my amazing teacher!"

    - Chea

Raquel O.
Raquel O.
2023-02-13
My 5 year old son wanted to take piano lessons so we reached out to JF music academy. They were running a special for January plus a free introductory class. Ms Lorraine is our sons teacher and he's really enjoying his sessions. He is enjoying his sessions so I'm hoping he will continue his Interest in learning.
Lili M.
Lili M.
2021-12-17
Nicest people in the world! I brought my niece for her first guitar and the teacher was great, along with the young lady who helped us out in the front. My niece is loving the lessons and I couldn't be happier about who amazing they are l, and the level of professionalism.
Sam S.
Sam S.
2021-08-05
I started taking guitar lessons with Alex about 2 months ago. It has been fantastic. Everyone at the school is incredibly nice, and it really has a low-key small town community type atmosphere. My lesson is one of the best parts of my week and I look forward to it every time. Most of the students are children, but I'm not. If you think you are too old to start an instrument or to take music lessons, you are incorrect! It's never too late to strike up the band. Give it a try, you will be glad you did.
Mitch M.
Mitch M.
2021-01-26
They're really professional there. I got to take piano lessons while in high school, and although I didn't appreciate it then, it was a great experience. I later took guitar and piano lessons there as an adult, and I was happy with their teachers. The staff was always accommodating. When I have kids, I will definitely be taking them there. The teachers are great!
Kathleen S.
Kathleen S.
2020-06-01
Online zoom call lessons have been working great. Patient teachers, service oriented front desk staff, charter school payment allowed. This place has been excellent for my 3 children. We took guitar, song writing, mandarin, piano, and tried out a music application type class for our youngest preschool age child.
Mark O.
Mark O.
2019-03-09
The spring performance was amazing and Joshua had an extremely wonderful experience with Mariah as his vocal coach.
Richard V.
Richard V.
2018-11-16
I'm very happy to be here. All the instructors have been excellent. Sad to see Denise go but looking forward to my new instructor. I have been here for 30+ lessons and will continue to come. The staff is great and Mario is a class act.

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