The Community School for the Arts (CSA) offers lessons on all major orchestral instruments (wind/brass/percussion/strings), piano, guitar, and voice. Adaptive music lessons (piano, guitar, and hand percussion only) are available for students seeking an individualized musical experiance. Lessons are taught by Illinois State University graduate or upper-class music students who have taken courses in pedagogy. All CSA teachers are recommended by Illinois State faculty and have passed a background check.
Typically, lessons are taught on campus, either in Old Union or Cook Hall. Your teacher will communicate the location and what materials are needed for lessons.
Please note: Illinois State University is following current coronavirus (COVID-19) guidance from the State of Illinois and the CDC and may need to adjust the program (e.g. delivery mode, group size, or location) on short notice. Any changes will be communicated to those participating as soon as we are able.
Lessons are currently offered both in-person and on Zoom, and prices are the same no matter which method of delivery. Please see information below for delivery options for individual teachers.
All lessons will be taught in person for Summer 2022. Zoom lessons may be offered if requested by the family or as a substitue if either the teacher or student is ill when both parties agree to this as a form of make-up lesson.
Summer lessons run in two six-week sessions. Most teachers can be flexible with individual family camp/vacation schedules; however all session 1 lessons need to be completed before June 30 and all session 2 lessons need to start after July 1.
Session 1: May 23-Jun 30
Session 2: July 1- August 12
*A 5% discount is available to families enrolling their second child or lessons on a second instrument through CSA. However, this discount is only available to families who pay in full at the time of registration. Individual lesson days/times are determined between the instructor and the family.
Private Music Lesson General Information and Policies
Who can enroll?
Private lessons are offered to students age five through adults for weekly private 1/2 hour, 45-minute, or 1-hour lessons.
Requirements
Student musicians are required to provide their own instruments for lessons and practice (pianos and some percussion instruments are provided for lessons). Vocalists may be required to pay an accompanist fee for the final performance.
Please note that students may be required to purchase music assigned by their instructor.
Lesson locations and attendance
On campus lessons are taught in either Cook Hall or Old Union as reserved and communicated by the teachers. In the event of absence, notify the instructor directly. One make-up lesson is granted each session for excused absences, provided at least 24 hours (or as much notice as possible) is given. Sporting practices/events and family vacations are not considered excused absences. Be certain to make appropriate arrangements if you plan to be absent. In the case of mild illness by either party or poor weather conditions, in person lessons may be held on zoom. If the University closes due to inclement weather, lessons will not be held or made-up.
Please listen to WGLT radio (89.1 FM) for updates.