Before You Quit

We hear you. It is totally normal to go through swings of enjoyment/motivation when learning music. We've all been there (yes, even our professionals have quit or tried to quit music lessons while learning!) & we can help you over the humps. Sometimes, we just need to recalibrate & revamp to something fresh. Scroll down for a bunch of ideas!

     Learning music is often a practice of delayed gratification (which is actually one of the life skills it can teach you). It doesn't happen quickly; it doesn't happen easily. But, the great thing about working through a music school is that we have a lot of options to renew your interest so you can "take a break" without actually quitting. 

Please take some time to consider your priorities & determine if music-making is a long-term goal of yours. We believe in "play for fun, learn for life," but that takes time & commitment.

     If you're having a hard time making it down to MME, consider online lessons from the comfort of your own home for your convenience. (Scroll down for other ideas.)

Breaks are perfectly fine! But, be warned that it's really easy to make your breaks longer than you initially intend when you get out of your routine. Before you go, it's helpful to have a return date on the calendar so you have something to look forward to & we can get in touch when it's time. While you're on a break, play with your instrument! Try some fun stuff & experiment. Explore.

OR, take a break from one instrument to try music in a different way - join a group, try another instrument, etc. (Scroll down for more ideas.)

Practicing at home can be frustrating. Maybe it doesn't click right away. Maybe your teacher is pushing you on a difficult piece or concept & it feels overwhelming. (You can do hard things! The reward is so worth it.)

     This could be an exciting time for you to "level up," in which case we say "Congratulations! You've been doing awesome!" It's time to talk openly with your teacher about how you're feeling so we can minimize your frustration while still helping you grow (& scroll down for other tips).

Lessons are not cheap. They are certainly a financial & time commitment. If paying for music lessons strains your family, please talk with Jan about your options. We are committed to supporting enthusiastic students regardless of ability to pay. 

     And, please make sure you're taking advantage of all we have to offer: 

• Access to all of our high-quality, professional musician teachers with over 60 years of combined teaching experience, an estimated 125 years of performing experience, + 7 arts degrees. (We’re hiring, btw.)
• A supportive, positive, collaborative learning environment for all ages. (Try out a new instrument, ask about team lessons, or get a rock band together for summer.)
• Practice space & instruments to use whenever there’s an open room. (Come early, stay late, stop by.)
• Flexible scheduling with in-person, online, hybrid, & self-paced recorded options.
• 10+ free recitals & events each year: 3 student recitals, 1-2 student appreciation celebrations, Make Music Day (every June 21st), the Strum-Along series, staff performances, & more.