Question 1

What is the best age to start music lessons?

Accepted Answer

We welcome students starting at age 4 for piano, guitar, drums, ukulele, and bass. For voice lessons, we recommend age 8 or older to protect developing vocal cords. Younger students (ages 4-7) interested in singing can blend piano and voice lessons, which builds musicality without straining their voices.

Question 2

What instruments do you teach?

Accepted Answer

We offer private lessons in piano, guitar, bass, ukulele, drums, and voice. We also run a Summer Rock Camp where students form bands and learn together.

Question 3

How can I cancel a lesson?

Accepted Answer

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance through your parent portal. When you cancel, we issue a makeup credit that you can book at your convenience. We also offer Zoom lessons if your child is sick but able to participate. Every missed lesson includes a recorded video lesson from your teacher to keep progress on track.

Question 4

What is your makeup lesson policy?

Accepted Answer

Makeup credits are issued for any lesson cancelled with 24+ hours notice. You can book makeups through your parent portal based on teacher availability. We also provide recorded video lessons for every missed class so students don't fall behind.

Question 5

How much do music lessons cost in Hamilton?

Accepted Answer

We offer three lesson lengths, billed monthly: 30 minutes for $136/month (best for beginners and younger students), 45 minutes for $204/month, and 60 minutes for $272/month. All lessons are weekly, billed on the first of each month. There's a one-time registration fee of $35.

Question 6

Do I need to have an instrument to start lessons?

Accepted Answer

For piano and drums, students can start without their own instrument, though having one at home produces the best results. For guitar, bass, and ukulele, students need their own instrument from day one. Daily practice builds finger strength, skill, and pain resilience that can't be replicated in weekly lessons alone.

Question 7

What is your practice philosophy for music students?

Accepted Answer

We focus on quality reps over timed practice sessions. Instead of practicing for 10 minutes, we ask students to play a piece or section correctly 10-20 times. Younger students (ages 4-7) should aim for 10 quality reps daily. Older kids, teens, and adults should do 30-40 reps per piece, or until fluidity improves. Quality matters more than speed - playing something poorly 5 times doesn't count.

Question 8

What are your music teachers like?

Accepted Answer

Our teachers are all background-checked (Police Record Check - Vulnerable Sector) and educated musicians. We hire for personality first, looking for teachers who listen, guide with empathy, and meet students where they are. Music should build confidence, not pressure. Our teachers balance structure with flexibility, teaching fundamentals while letting students explore songs they actually want to learn.

Teachers

Footprints Music Staff

Alex Hobcraft

Rachael Shay

Katherine Barr

Nick Corsini

Jared Jones

Curtis Henztman

Gordy Newton John

George Elchuk

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