Middle school music class?

Question

Ok, well I've decided that this year I will be taking violin again at my middle school. (I took violin in 4th grade) I've read the online handbook that they posted and it said that the school would encourage students to take private lessons. It also stated that 90% of the advanced players at my school take private lessons.

The problem is, I can't take private lessons. (Finance issues) Is it really necessary to take private lessons? A friend of mine is an advanced violin player and she never took private lessons. I'm thinking about asking her to teach me a bit of the parts that I can't handle. What do you think?

Answer 1

If the school is only "encourging" kids to take private lessons then that means that you don't HAVE to take private lessons. I would ask that friend of your to also teach you a bit of the parts that you can't handle. It might bring you guys closer and it help you guys hang out more. Sounds like it will be fun!

Answer 2

You are definitely at a disadvantage without lessons.  Getting help from friends is a good idea.  You can also go to the teacher and ask for help.  You may want to discuss your financial dilemma with your teacher.  He/she may have an alternative.

Without lessons, you need to practice hard.  I'd get a metronome and a tuner (shar music has a nice inexpensive combo metronome/tuner).  Practice with it.  Practice scales slow and work on intonation.  Practice counting.

Once or twice a week, get a practice buddy in your section.

Answer 3

You don't NEED private lessons to be hella good. Just practice, patience, and dedication. I've gotten to the level of people who've taken private lessons in my class even though I've never had any myself. It's a lot easier though with lessons DX

Answer 4

I can understand your situation, but you would definitely have an advantage and an edge over those who don't take lessons, if you could / can.  Some people do fine without them either because they are naturally talented, or because they work extra hard on their own.   You could fall into one of these categories.  

Also, you should talk to your teachers because sometimes they have a program where they help pay a portion of the private lesson fee, I think they consider it like a scholarship.  

And last of all, you could even try and get in touch with an advanced player in high school or even college who would teach you, but for a cheaper price than what an adult, college educated person would charge.  

Thanks for reading!