Harper Music Studio
Tuition Track Lessons
My teaching philosophy is threefold: to aid students in discovering their ability to perform a wide array of repertoire and styles, to help them critically analyze and tackle challenges that arise in their learning process, and to encourage them to apply these skills outside of performance.
In addition to weekly lessons, Tuition Track Lessons include participation in performance classes, reeds, and instrument maintenance. Spots are limited for Tuition Track lessons. Please contact me for availability and rate information.
Performance Class
Each term, students will participate in a performance of some capacity, as the only way to improve performance skills is by performing. Performance Classes will include Summer Oboe Day and Reed-Making Seminar, Fall Masterclass, Solo & Ensemble, and the Spring Studio Recital.
Summer Oboe Day and Reed-Making Seminar will provide all students a chance to perform for each other in a guest artist masterclass. Students who are making reeds will attend intensive sessions ranging from how to get started with reeds to advanced techniques and cane processing.
High school students preparing to participate in Solo & Ensemble will perform in the Fall Masterclass, and younger students will have the chance to listen and observe. Oboe professors and performers from across the region and across the country will be brought in to work with students and give valuable feedback and direction in their preparation. This is a wonderful opportunity for all students to meet professors and work directly with them. It is a crucial first step in a college application process - whether the student pursues music at the university level or not.
Each student will have the opportunity to perform in their respective regional Solo & Ensemble. We will work with an accompanist in lessons for at least two coaching sessions. Accompanist scheduling and payment is included in tuition, so that students can focus on their performance preparation.
The Spring Studio Recital will take place in early June each year. Friends and family are invited to a showcase performance celebrating each student's hard work over the past year.
Reeds
Students who play on quality, level-appropriate reeds develop beautiful sound and progress more quickly that those who play on sub-par reeds. Tuition includes a steady supply of handmade reeds that grow with a student's progress. As a student begins making reeds, handmade reeds are supplemented with reed-making supplies.
Students who have not started making reeds will receive two Student Reeds each month, plus any needed emergency reeds. Those who are beginning their reed-making journey will receive three Advanced Reeds and one bundle of Gouged and Shaped cane twice per term. Advanced reed-making students will receive two Advanced Reeds and two bundles of Gouged and Shaped Cane each twice per term.
More information about handmade reeds from Harper Music Studio can be found here.
Instrument Maintenance
Musicians make better music when the instrument is working its best. Students have access to emergency repair, bi-annual maintenance checks, and major repair referrals whenever needed.
Bi-annual repair includes playing adjustments, cleaning, and bore oil (for wooden instruments).