Current Students
- Weekly lessons and group classes will continue as scheduled via Zoom video conferencing. We are in regular communication with our students about this, but if you need any assistance joining your lesson please call, email, or text us.
Please make sure you are checking emails regularly, and that you have not unsubscribed from our mailing list. As this is a constantly evolving situation, it is important that we are able to communicate with you! If you have unsubscribed from our mailing list you can email us at [email protected] to opt in. You can also check this page for regular updates.
Tips for a successful online lesson:
Prior to the lesson time, find a quiet place in the home where you can place your phone, computer, or tablet so that the student has their hands free. Set up the frame so that at least the upper half of the body is visible. If the student plays piano, violin, or guitar, make sure their fingers are in frame as well. In the space you’ve chosen, please have the following materials set up:
Prior to the lesson time, find a quiet place in the home where you can place your phone, computer, or tablet so that the student has their hands free. Set up the frame so that at least the upper half of the body is visible. If the student plays piano, violin, or guitar, make sure their fingers are in frame as well. In the space you’ve chosen, please have the following materials set up:
- The student’s binder with sheet music
- The student’s books (Adventures Through Sound, practice book, etc.)
- A pencil
- Any other tools they may need to play, such as a footrest, capo, music stand, etc.
- Any additional materials your teacher has asked students to have ready.
New Students
We are still able to enroll new students! We understand that while stuck inside, you and your child are in need of productive activities that are fun, and engaging. Music is an excellent way to find calm and clarity during stressful times. Our admin team is available to answer calls, texts, and emails.
What Our Students Have to Say
|
For non-corona reasons Stephen and Valeria have been providing [online lessons] for our family for some time. While not as good a being there with them, it is still a wonderful way to have a lesson, and has been critical in being able to continue lessons for our children, stay connected to their teachers and their music. We are grateful for the distance learning of the past year, and excited Orpheus is providing a way for all their students to be able to continue with their music during these uncertain times. |
It felt like a real lesson...the online lesson enhanced learning by it being more Interactive in a nice comfortable setting of my own house.
— Michael V., 15 year old guitar student
We just had our first “virtual” lesson for guitar with our 4-year old son. It was surprisingly efficient and felt so relaxed in the comfort of our home. I’m not sure if it was the technology component or the clever tools used by the teacher, but my son was able to stay engaged more than he even does in some of his in-person lessons! An added bonus was that our teacher was able to see some adjustments we needed to make with our home set-up to ensure our son had the appropriate position with his guitar. The whole family got to be involved and it was fun!
— Chloe H., mother of Theo
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect from an online private lesson?
While in many ways your online private lesson will be the same as a traditional in-person lesson, there are many unique advantages to taking an online lesson. Your teacher has prepared an exciting lesson plan that takes advantage of fun music technologies and online music. You will play pieces you have learned and you will also be able to learn new pieces from music your teacher has provided or through echoing their playing. Your teacher will demonstrate new techniques and will send you exciting new exercises and pieces to practice at home.
Your teacher will also be able to observe your at home practice set-up and catch any potential problems that may be hindering your technique. This can dramatically improve your home practice and fast-track your progress! If a parent is available to sit in on the lesson your teacher can demonstrate fun activities that you and your child can repeat every day. This can be especially beneficial for students under the age of 7 and is a great way to bond as a family.
Check out an example of an online lesson on our Facebook page here.
What is the difference between online lessons with a live instructor and other forms of online learning such as youtube videos?
The main advantage to working with a live instructor in your online lessons is that your teacher can give you feedback in the moment about what you can do to get better faster. Your lessons will be personal and tailored to you or your child’s individual learning style. Your music is also selected specifically for you! Over the course of 16 years we have crafted a curriculum that is unlike any other and is specifically designed to be adapted to each individual student. If you are a current student you also have the unique advantage of already having a personal relationship with your instructor.
My children have their lessons at the same time. What do we do?
If you have two devices we recommend keeping your regular lesson time and setting up each child's lesson in separate rooms. If you are not able to do this then we will assist you with rescheduling one of the lessons.
Will I need a Zoom account to participate in my lesson?
No, you do not need a Zoom account to participate in your lesson. At the start of your lesson simply click on the link we've provided you via email. You will be prompted to open Zoom. If Zoom asks you to make an account ignore those options and continue to the meeting. If you have any issues please don't hesitate to call, text, or email.
Do I need to download Zoom to participate in my lesson?
For the best results, we recommend that you download the Zoom app onto your computer, tablet, or phone. The app is completely free and easy to install. If you are using a laptop or a desktop computer you can run Zoom on your internet browser without downloading the app. Watch a full tutorial on connecting to your lesson here.
I’m having trouble with my internet at home. Is there any way I can still do a lesson while you’re closed?
While we are closed for in-person lessons we can still make our studio and internet available to you while maintaining the recommended distance and sanitation requirements. Our admin team is keeping limited in-person hours so please contact us with at least 24 hours notice so that we can ensure that a studio is available to you. All the surfaces in the studio will be wiped down before and after you leave. When you arrive one of our admin staff will direct you to your room while maintaining a six foot distance. You may bring your own device to use, or borrow one of ours which will be sanitized before and after your lesson.
I don’t have a piano at home, what do I do?
We can arrange delivery of a sanitized keyboard to you for a rental fee of $25 per month until the quarantine is over. We can also make a private studio available to you at one of our locations with at least 24 hours notice. All the surfaces in the studio will be wiped down before and after you arrive. Your teacher will still be conducting your lesson from home via video conference. You may bring your own device to use, or borrow one of ours which will be sanitized before and after your lesson.
Can I forego online classes and take a make-up lesson instead?
At this time we are encouraging everyone to try online lessons first. If those are truly unworkable we can set up a conference with one of our directors to discuss options that can work for your family.
My child is too young to take online classes. What are my options?
We understand that every child is unique and will respond to online lessons differently. Over the past 16 years, our instructors have collaborated to create a one-of-a-kind online curriculum that works for all ages and learning styles, and we have had many successful lessons with children as young as 4 years old. Just like programs such as Sesame Street, our online music classes are fun, interactive, and grounded in the principles of early childhood education. And because lessons are further customized based on the individual learner, we believe we provide something valuable for every child.
We hope that you will consider trying an online class or two to see if they work for your child before making a final decision. As always, your instructor, directors, and admin staff are here to support you in finding an option that works for you and your family. If, after trying an online class, you still feel that they are not for you, please don’t hesitate to contact the front desk and your instructor so that we can find a creative solution that will work specifically for you.
Do I need to be present during my child's online private lesson?
Just like with regular in-person lessons parents are always welcome to sit in on their child's lesson, however it is not necessary. For children under the age of seven we encourage parents to be present for at least the first couple of lessons to help facilitate the lesson. Every child is unique so we encourage you to discuss the appropriate amount of parent involvement for your child with your instructor.
Do I need to be present during my child's online group class?
Just like with regular group classes parents are always welcome to sit in on their child's class. For students in our Kinder Theory class we request that parents participate in the lesson with their child. This is a unique opportunity to bond with your child through fun music activities, and it will ensure that your child will get the most out of their group class experience.
Students participating in Musicianship 1 through Advanced do not need a parent present. Because every child is unique we encourage you to use your best judgement to decide how much parent involvement you feel is appropriate for your child. If you would like guidance, we can help you get in touch with your group class instructor and one of your directors.
I don’t think my younger student can do video lessons, but my older student is interested in trying. Can they take the lessons instead?
Yes, of course. However, give it a try with the younger child first — we have had successful lessons with children as young as age 4.
I want to suspend my lessons, what do I do?
We understand that during this unprecedented crisis families are making difficult decisions as they prioritize their time and resources. We have worked with our faculty and staff to provide online lessons via video conferencing that are fun, interactive, and just as productive as in-person lessons. As students spend more time at home during this quarantine engagement with a fun, creative activity can be incredibly beneficial for both parents and students. We hope that you will consider trying out a lesson or two before making a final decision, however, we do understand if you would still prefer to suspend your lessons for the time being.
To withdraw from lessons please contact the front desk to fill out a withdrawal form, and because this an unprecedented event we want to work with our families to hold your slot as long as possible. You have already paid through the end of the March billing period, which is March 28, so you will have at least one more lesson via video conferencing. Your tuition payment for April 1 will not be charged. We will hold your spot through March 28, and if you decide to continue lessons past this date we will cancel your withdrawal and lessons will continue as scheduled via video conferencing until AISD reopens. Unfortunately we are not able to hold your spot past March 28 if you do choose to withdraw. As we are still receiving new students, we need to open available spots for scheduling to ensure we are able to support our instructors with consistent pay.
Can I get a refund for my private lessons?
So far over 100 students have taken online lessons and reported amazing experiences. We encourage you to try these lessons before making a final decision, and if they truly don’t work for you we will be happy to issue you a voucher. Because our teachers depend on the income from their lessons we are not able to provide refunds for tuition. If you are withdrawing and you are unable to take a private lesson via video conferencing please contact the front desk to receive a voucher for that lesson. This voucher does not expire and can be scheduled at any time once in-person lessons resume.
Can I get a refund for my group class?
We will be offering some amazing online group classes in the coming days and weeks. We encourage you to try these lessons before making a final decision. If they truly don’t work for you we will be happy to issue a voucher. Because our teachers depend on the income from their group classes, we are not able to provide refunds for tuition. Our entire faculty and staff are currently working together to create an online version of the group class that is fun and engaging for students of all ages. Current versions of these lessons resemble the way your child interacts with programs like Sesame Street, only their teacher and peers can talk directly to them!
I would like to schedule extra lessons for myself or my child. How do I do this?
We are happy to help you schedule additional lessons! We know it can be tough to keep children engaged in productive activities while stuck at home, and music-making is an excellent way to boost spirits. Please contact the front desk to schedule additional lessons. Our admin staff are available to answer your calls, emails, and texts.
When will in-person lessons resume?
It is, of course, impossible to predict how long the current public health crisis will last. Orpheus will follow the direction of Austin Independent School District regarding closures. Currently we plan to reopen in-person lessons no sooner than April 6
I’m not currently a student, but I’m interested in signing up. What options do I have for getting started while AISD is closed?
You can definitely get started with online music lessons while practicing social distancing. To get started we would love to find an instructor that would be the best fit for your needs. The best way to do this is to schedule a discounted 25 minute introductory lesson for $25. Our faculty and staff have worked together to create online lessons that are fun, interactive, and just as productive as in-person lessons. To get more information contact us here, or just call, text, or email.
What can I expect from my online intro lesson?
Just like an in-person introductory lessons, new students will learn about the instrument, and learn basic technique such has how to hold the instrument with correct posture. They will also learn a fun piece that they can practice at home! Your teacher will get to know you and will outline their plan for your lessons moving forward. After your intro lesson a member of our admin staff will be in touch to discuss how you can sign up for ongoing lessons moving forward. We will also discuss our plan for transitioning to in-person lessons once AISD re-opens.
What will I learn if I sign up for online music lessons? Will I be able to start learning on my preferred instrument right away?
Students under the age of 7 can begin their music lessons using step bells. You can expect your child to learn about beat, rhythm, melody, and pitch. Students will also learn how to play fun songs and games on their bells. If you do not have step bells at home we can hand deliver a set to you. Once AISD re-opens the student can begin in-person lessons and will apply what they’ve learned on their bells to their instrument.
Students age 7 to adult can begin their online lessons on their preferred instrument (piano, guitar, violin, or voice). If you do not have an instrument at home we can hand deliver one to you.
While in many ways your online private lesson will be the same as a traditional in-person lesson, there are many unique advantages to taking an online lesson. Your teacher has prepared an exciting lesson plan that takes advantage of fun music technologies and online music. You will play pieces you have learned and you will also be able to learn new pieces from music your teacher has provided or through echoing their playing. Your teacher will demonstrate new techniques and will send you exciting new exercises and pieces to practice at home.
Your teacher will also be able to observe your at home practice set-up and catch any potential problems that may be hindering your technique. This can dramatically improve your home practice and fast-track your progress! If a parent is available to sit in on the lesson your teacher can demonstrate fun activities that you and your child can repeat every day. This can be especially beneficial for students under the age of 7 and is a great way to bond as a family.
Check out an example of an online lesson on our Facebook page here.
What is the difference between online lessons with a live instructor and other forms of online learning such as youtube videos?
The main advantage to working with a live instructor in your online lessons is that your teacher can give you feedback in the moment about what you can do to get better faster. Your lessons will be personal and tailored to you or your child’s individual learning style. Your music is also selected specifically for you! Over the course of 16 years we have crafted a curriculum that is unlike any other and is specifically designed to be adapted to each individual student. If you are a current student you also have the unique advantage of already having a personal relationship with your instructor.
My children have their lessons at the same time. What do we do?
If you have two devices we recommend keeping your regular lesson time and setting up each child's lesson in separate rooms. If you are not able to do this then we will assist you with rescheduling one of the lessons.
Will I need a Zoom account to participate in my lesson?
No, you do not need a Zoom account to participate in your lesson. At the start of your lesson simply click on the link we've provided you via email. You will be prompted to open Zoom. If Zoom asks you to make an account ignore those options and continue to the meeting. If you have any issues please don't hesitate to call, text, or email.
Do I need to download Zoom to participate in my lesson?
For the best results, we recommend that you download the Zoom app onto your computer, tablet, or phone. The app is completely free and easy to install. If you are using a laptop or a desktop computer you can run Zoom on your internet browser without downloading the app. Watch a full tutorial on connecting to your lesson here.
I’m having trouble with my internet at home. Is there any way I can still do a lesson while you’re closed?
While we are closed for in-person lessons we can still make our studio and internet available to you while maintaining the recommended distance and sanitation requirements. Our admin team is keeping limited in-person hours so please contact us with at least 24 hours notice so that we can ensure that a studio is available to you. All the surfaces in the studio will be wiped down before and after you leave. When you arrive one of our admin staff will direct you to your room while maintaining a six foot distance. You may bring your own device to use, or borrow one of ours which will be sanitized before and after your lesson.
I don’t have a piano at home, what do I do?
We can arrange delivery of a sanitized keyboard to you for a rental fee of $25 per month until the quarantine is over. We can also make a private studio available to you at one of our locations with at least 24 hours notice. All the surfaces in the studio will be wiped down before and after you arrive. Your teacher will still be conducting your lesson from home via video conference. You may bring your own device to use, or borrow one of ours which will be sanitized before and after your lesson.
Can I forego online classes and take a make-up lesson instead?
At this time we are encouraging everyone to try online lessons first. If those are truly unworkable we can set up a conference with one of our directors to discuss options that can work for your family.
My child is too young to take online classes. What are my options?
We understand that every child is unique and will respond to online lessons differently. Over the past 16 years, our instructors have collaborated to create a one-of-a-kind online curriculum that works for all ages and learning styles, and we have had many successful lessons with children as young as 4 years old. Just like programs such as Sesame Street, our online music classes are fun, interactive, and grounded in the principles of early childhood education. And because lessons are further customized based on the individual learner, we believe we provide something valuable for every child.
We hope that you will consider trying an online class or two to see if they work for your child before making a final decision. As always, your instructor, directors, and admin staff are here to support you in finding an option that works for you and your family. If, after trying an online class, you still feel that they are not for you, please don’t hesitate to contact the front desk and your instructor so that we can find a creative solution that will work specifically for you.
Do I need to be present during my child's online private lesson?
Just like with regular in-person lessons parents are always welcome to sit in on their child's lesson, however it is not necessary. For children under the age of seven we encourage parents to be present for at least the first couple of lessons to help facilitate the lesson. Every child is unique so we encourage you to discuss the appropriate amount of parent involvement for your child with your instructor.
Do I need to be present during my child's online group class?
Just like with regular group classes parents are always welcome to sit in on their child's class. For students in our Kinder Theory class we request that parents participate in the lesson with their child. This is a unique opportunity to bond with your child through fun music activities, and it will ensure that your child will get the most out of their group class experience.
Students participating in Musicianship 1 through Advanced do not need a parent present. Because every child is unique we encourage you to use your best judgement to decide how much parent involvement you feel is appropriate for your child. If you would like guidance, we can help you get in touch with your group class instructor and one of your directors.
I don’t think my younger student can do video lessons, but my older student is interested in trying. Can they take the lessons instead?
Yes, of course. However, give it a try with the younger child first — we have had successful lessons with children as young as age 4.
I want to suspend my lessons, what do I do?
We understand that during this unprecedented crisis families are making difficult decisions as they prioritize their time and resources. We have worked with our faculty and staff to provide online lessons via video conferencing that are fun, interactive, and just as productive as in-person lessons. As students spend more time at home during this quarantine engagement with a fun, creative activity can be incredibly beneficial for both parents and students. We hope that you will consider trying out a lesson or two before making a final decision, however, we do understand if you would still prefer to suspend your lessons for the time being.
To withdraw from lessons please contact the front desk to fill out a withdrawal form, and because this an unprecedented event we want to work with our families to hold your slot as long as possible. You have already paid through the end of the March billing period, which is March 28, so you will have at least one more lesson via video conferencing. Your tuition payment for April 1 will not be charged. We will hold your spot through March 28, and if you decide to continue lessons past this date we will cancel your withdrawal and lessons will continue as scheduled via video conferencing until AISD reopens. Unfortunately we are not able to hold your spot past March 28 if you do choose to withdraw. As we are still receiving new students, we need to open available spots for scheduling to ensure we are able to support our instructors with consistent pay.
Can I get a refund for my private lessons?
So far over 100 students have taken online lessons and reported amazing experiences. We encourage you to try these lessons before making a final decision, and if they truly don’t work for you we will be happy to issue you a voucher. Because our teachers depend on the income from their lessons we are not able to provide refunds for tuition. If you are withdrawing and you are unable to take a private lesson via video conferencing please contact the front desk to receive a voucher for that lesson. This voucher does not expire and can be scheduled at any time once in-person lessons resume.
Can I get a refund for my group class?
We will be offering some amazing online group classes in the coming days and weeks. We encourage you to try these lessons before making a final decision. If they truly don’t work for you we will be happy to issue a voucher. Because our teachers depend on the income from their group classes, we are not able to provide refunds for tuition. Our entire faculty and staff are currently working together to create an online version of the group class that is fun and engaging for students of all ages. Current versions of these lessons resemble the way your child interacts with programs like Sesame Street, only their teacher and peers can talk directly to them!
I would like to schedule extra lessons for myself or my child. How do I do this?
We are happy to help you schedule additional lessons! We know it can be tough to keep children engaged in productive activities while stuck at home, and music-making is an excellent way to boost spirits. Please contact the front desk to schedule additional lessons. Our admin staff are available to answer your calls, emails, and texts.
When will in-person lessons resume?
It is, of course, impossible to predict how long the current public health crisis will last. Orpheus will follow the direction of Austin Independent School District regarding closures. Currently we plan to reopen in-person lessons no sooner than April 6
I’m not currently a student, but I’m interested in signing up. What options do I have for getting started while AISD is closed?
You can definitely get started with online music lessons while practicing social distancing. To get started we would love to find an instructor that would be the best fit for your needs. The best way to do this is to schedule a discounted 25 minute introductory lesson for $25. Our faculty and staff have worked together to create online lessons that are fun, interactive, and just as productive as in-person lessons. To get more information contact us here, or just call, text, or email.
What can I expect from my online intro lesson?
Just like an in-person introductory lessons, new students will learn about the instrument, and learn basic technique such has how to hold the instrument with correct posture. They will also learn a fun piece that they can practice at home! Your teacher will get to know you and will outline their plan for your lessons moving forward. After your intro lesson a member of our admin staff will be in touch to discuss how you can sign up for ongoing lessons moving forward. We will also discuss our plan for transitioning to in-person lessons once AISD re-opens.
What will I learn if I sign up for online music lessons? Will I be able to start learning on my preferred instrument right away?
Students under the age of 7 can begin their music lessons using step bells. You can expect your child to learn about beat, rhythm, melody, and pitch. Students will also learn how to play fun songs and games on their bells. If you do not have step bells at home we can hand deliver a set to you. Once AISD re-opens the student can begin in-person lessons and will apply what they’ve learned on their bells to their instrument.
Students age 7 to adult can begin their online lessons on their preferred instrument (piano, guitar, violin, or voice). If you do not have an instrument at home we can hand deliver one to you.
