Kevin R. Mott
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore answers to common questions by clicking below. If you don’t find what you’re looking for, feel free to reach out via my contact form.
What is your cancelation policy?
You can cancel a lesson within 24 hours of the scheduled lesson. If your lesson is at 5:30 on Tuesday, please let me know by Monday at 5:30 at the latest. If you need to cancel within 24 hours we will try to find a make up time for the missed lesson. If no time is available you will be charged for the missed lesson.
What if I am sick?
If you are sick please let me know right away, this includes up to the scheduled lesson time. If you let me know before hand we will cancel the lesson at no charge. This is to protect myself and the other students who will have lessons on that day. We can look for a make up spot for the missed lesson if desired.
How much should I be practicing?
A good goal at the beginning is ten to fifteen minutes, depending on the instrument. As you progress through lessons this time will increase to be closer to a half hour per practice session. Something to keep in mind is it is better to practice a little bit five days a week, rather than a lot one day a week. Aim for practicing four to five days a week to really hone in and master your new skill!
How long should lessons be?
I always suggest to start with a thirty minute lesson for beginners. As students progress I will let you know when it is time for a longer lesson, but the decision will ultimately always be up to you.
Do I need my own instrument?
Yes, you will need to have access to an instrument or practice materials in order to progress and nurture your craft. Please refer to the Lessons page of the website to find out what you need to get started?
Do I need to bring my instrument to lessons?
This is instrument specific. Please refer to the specific instrument under the lessons page to see if this is necessary.
Can I sit in on lessons for my child?
Yes, this is always allowed! Please feel free to sit in on the lesson. I only ask that you take the fly on the wall mentality. Watch, listen, but please don’t interject unless I ask for assistance. I can supply you with the wifi password as well to help you make the best use of the time.
What age can my child get started with lessons?
Generally I say seven is a good starting age for piano, drums, or guitar. Please reach out to me if your child is younger than seven because I have had success with children as young as four. If your child is too young I will mention it to you and we can always try again when they get a little bit older.
Will my child be able to play a this song in a month?
No, that is not a realistic expectation for any instrument. Most instruments take a year or more to get to a level where you can play a basic version of a song. There are exceptions to this, and I always will move at the pace of the student, as opposed to sticking to a strict schedule that could slow a quick learner down.
Where do lessons take place?
Where can I find required materials for lessons?
Lessons materials can be found on each lesson page:
– Guitar
– Drums
– Piano
– Music Theory
I want to support a local business, where can I go to find lesson materials?
Chuck Levin’s in Silver Spring is a great place to go to find everything you will need to get started with lessons. Unlike Guitar Center or other big name music stores, they are there to help you find exactly what you need and won’t try to sell you the things you don’t. I have been going there for years and am always impressed by their level of professionalism. If you are going for drum gear be sure to ask for Paul and say I sent you!