Frequently Asked Music Questions
Frequently Asked Music Questions
We know making that first step in choosing your instrument is a tough one. Don’t let that stop you! We are committed to helping your student find the right fit. If you’re unhappy with your mentor or instrument, you can simply let us know and we’ll try a different option. We offer a one-time free trial lesson for all new students to try out your instrument of choice to ensure it’s a good fit. We’re committed to partnering with you to find the absolute best fit instrument and mentor!
Every lesson and class is led by instructors that we purposely call “mentors.” We take the responsibility of training the next generation seriously. Each of our mentors is not only thoroughly background checked, trained, and empowered to develop the student’s gifts and talents, but also to build trusted and reliable connections. We believe that if the students trust the environment and mentor, they will thrive and grow faster. You can meet our Music Mentors here!
Absolutely. Making an instrument or mentor change is easy. Simply contact our office at (615) 804-1177 or music@rootsacademy.com and let them know what you’d like to do. They’ll be happy to talk you through your options.
Absolutely! As long as we hear from you at least 24 hours before your scheduled lesson, you will receive a once-monthly make-up for your missed lessons.
Make-ups are not permitted for no-shows or multiple missed lessons per month.
We offer hassle-free withdrawals and/or temporary lesson holds. The only requirement is to submit your request to withdraw at least 30 days prior to the next billing cycle. Withdrawal requests must be submitted in writing using this form. Withdrawals will be processed within three business days.
ROOTS Music uses Opus1.io to track all lesson scheduling, billing and progress notes. You will receive a link to login into your portal when you enroll. If you ever have trouble accessing your account, please email us at music@rootsacademy.com.
You can login by clicking here!
The current music lesson rates are $165 per month for 30-minute weekly lessons $245 per month for 45-minute weekly lessons $330 per month for 60-minute weekly lessons.
RMA Fest is hosted quarterly in the Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer to give our students multiple opportunities to perform throughout the year.
2024-2025 RMA Fest Dates —
- Fall: November 22-23, 2024
- Winter: February 7-8, 2025
- Spring: April 25-26, 2025
- Summer: June 27-28, 2025
Absolutely! Tune in live at rootsacademy.com/live — the shows will also be available to watch online after the live premiere.
If you would like to chat and leave a comment for your favorite musician, jump over to our YouTube channel to join in.
You are welcome to invite as many friends and family you’d like to cheer you on! All shows are ticketed, tickets are available for $10 in advance and $12 at the door. You can purchase tickets here.
Absolutely! We offer a temporary hold for music lessons that allows students to keep their mentor, lesson day/time, and current tuition rate for a discounted rate each month. You can read up more on Lesson Holds here.
Click here to get a login link via email. If you’re still having challenges logging in, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at music@rootsacademy.com. Our team is here to help!
All students are issued up to 1 make-up credit per month upon valid cancellation with our admin team. You can view your available make-up credits on the dashboard of your ROOTS Music Portal under the “Credits” section on your profile.
Simply give us a call at (615) 804-1177 x1 or email music@rootsacademy.com to cancel a lesson at least 1 hour before your regularly scheduled lesson to receive your 1 monthly make-up credit. Please keep in mind, additional cancellations will not receive a make-up credit, and there are no refunds for missed lessons.
Students are offered 1 make-up credit per lesson type per month for cancellations made at least 24 hours in advance of the scheduled lesson. Make-up lesson availability is limited and varies by mentor, and we encourage students to make every effort to attend their regularly scheduled weekly lessons either ins studio or online via Zoom. Make-up credits expire 30 days after date issued.
Click here for instructions on how to schedule a make-up lesson.
Students who have been playing at least one year and are no less than 11 years old are welcome to audition for the band program.
The 2023-2024 season will begin the week of August 7th, 2023 and end the week of May 13th, 2024.
Nope! While a Mentor may refer you to the program, any musician 11 years of age or older may audition.
Students wishing to participate in the OnStage Band program will be allowed to perform on multiple instruments with their band if and when the situation is in favor of all band members. For example, vocalists that also play guitar or keyboard players that also sing.
These circumstances will be dealt with in a case-by-case scenario and any student wishing to play more than one instrument within their band should make this known prior to auditions so it can be considered when the bands are formed.
Such students will also need to audition on each instrument individually and simultaneously to properly gauge musical proficiency.
Band size and composition will follow a general line up to include the following; 1 vocalist, 2 guitarists, 1 bassist, 1 keyboard player, and 1 drummer.
Though this is not always possible, bands will never include less than 3 members (i.e. guitar/vocals, bass, drums) or more than 7 members.
This is to allow maximum playing time and attention for each student while also staying true to a group experience in music-making.
Due to the limited number of Bands and the limited number of slots in each group, not every student will be placed in a Band. During placement we take into account both skill level and age, while doing our best to build well-balanced Bands. If you are not initially placed in a Band, and another student denies their offer into the program, you may be extended a late offer to fill the open spot!
Band Auditions are open to musicians 11 years and older, even if they’re not currently enrolled in private lessons at ROOTS. However, once accepted into the OnStage program, all members must be committed to private lessons at ROOTS (recommended) or show proof of enrollment elsewhere.
Bands will participate in multiple live performances throughout the year. Performance opportunities range from playing at the semi-annual OnStage Band Show, RMA FEST, as well as at local festivals and music venues in the Franklin/Nashville area.
RMA Fest will take place at the Roy E. Barberi Theatre, just 5 minutes down the street from ROOTS!
The address is: 1724-B General George Patton Dr, Brentwood, TN 37027
Whatever you feel comfortable performing in! We encourage students to dress to impress, so break out those sequins or dress-up your favorite jeans and graphic tee if that’s more your style.
While performers won’t be able to warm up individually, all performers will meet with their mentor in the Green Room and they will be able to do vocal warm ups, exercises to release the jitters and answer any questions you may have!
Your music, your instrument (Piano & Drums provided), any gear needed for your performance, and of a camera! We will have a Red Carpet set up to document your shining moment.
Also, bring your cheering section! Tickets are available for $10 HERE, and all friends and family members are invited to come cheer you on!
OnStage Live Auditions for the 2023-24 Band session are July 14* from 10AM-2PM. *If a student is not available on July 14th, makeup auditions are July 21.
Registration for 2023-24 Onstage Band Session is open! Click here for audition details and to register for Auditions July 14th.
No. All OnStage members — new and returning — are required to audition for acceptance into the program each year.
OnStage Band Sessions run from August – May.
In order to ensure consistency and the best progress possible, we do not offer bi-weekly lessons. We see the best growth for students who attend lessons weekly. However, we do offer online lessons through Zoom, so if life gets in the way, students are always welcome to have their lesson at home!
We have several options available for weekly music lessons:
- 30 minute lessons ($165/month)
- 45 minute lessons ($245/month)
- 60 minute lessons ($330/month)
When you enroll in music lessons, you reserve a day & time on a mentor’s calendar that will be yours until you decide to change your schedule or discontinue lessons.
Music students are not locked into long-term commitments as tuition is billed monthly, however, we recommend committing to lessons for at least a year in order to see instrument progress, especially for beginners.
If you’re ready to enroll in music lessons, click here!
Absolutely! Performance is a huge part of our community here at ROOTS.
We offer bi-annual Music Showcases (RMA Fest) in Fall/Winter & Spring.
We also offer supplemental performance opportunities like coffee shop nights, writers rounds, and gigs in the community for our OnStage Band program.
The best age to start music lessons depends on the individual and their goals.
Some children may start music lessons as early as age three or four, while others may start in their teenage years. It is generally recommended to start music lessons when the child shows an interest in music and is ready to commit to practicing regularly.
We generally find that children are ready to start sometime between the ages of six and eight.
It is also important to consider the child’s physical and cognitive development when deciding on the appropriate age to start music lessons.
It’s also never too late to begin music lessons! Our Music student community is full of students of all ages — both kids and adults!
There are several signs that a child may be ready to start music lessons, including:
- Expressing an interest in music: A child who shows an interest in music, such as listening to songs or singing along, may be ready to start music lessons.
- Demonstrating coordination and fine motor skills: Children who are able to hold and manipulate small objects, such as a pencil or a toy instrument, may be ready to start music lessons.
- Showing a willingness to learn and practice: Children who are willing to listen to instructions and put in the effort to practice regularly may be ready to start music lessons.
- Demonstrating a positive attitude towards music: Children who have a positive attitude towards music and are excited to learn may be ready to start music lessons.
We are happy to discuss your child and their uniqueness at any time. Simply email or call us at (615) 804-1177, extension 1.
At ROOTS, our music mentors are active musicians deeply connected to Nashville’s vibrant music scene. They’re not just teachers; they’re performers and artists who bring real-world experience into the studio.
Occasionally, mentors may have commitments on the road or in the studio. While this may result in temporary substitutions, we’re committed to minimizing disruptions and keeping you informed about any changes.
In the rare event of a must-do touring opportunity, we have a smooth transition plan in place. Our team will help you seamlessly switch to a new mentor to ensure your musical journey continues without interruption.
We understand that mentor changes can be challenging, but we’re dedicated to finding the best fit for your growth and success. We prioritize clear communication and ensuring you feel supported throughout the process.
Certainly! ROOTS Academy offers you not only dedicated mentors but also a diverse pool to choose from. This means you have the advantage of a wide selection of mentors, greatly increasing the likelihood of retaining your preferred day and time commitments for lessons without disruptions. Plus, you can rest easy knowing that every mentor on our team is not only skilled and qualified but also thoroughly background checked, ensuring your continued top-notch education. Our goal is to ensure that your musical journey remains seamless and uninterrupted as possible.
We actively foster a growth mindset in our students, emphasizing that music education goes beyond technical skills. We empower individuals to embrace challenges, learn from mistakes, and continually improve not just as musicians but as well-rounded individuals.
Learning from mentors actively involved in Nashville’s music scene provides a unique perspective. It enriches your music education with insights and experiences that go beyond the studio.
Absolutely! Our approach caters to all skill levels. Whether you’re just starting your musical journey or looking to refine your skills, our mentors are equipped to guide you on the path to success in music and Music City.
The at-home cancellation policy remains the same as our studio policy. In case a scheduled music lesson needs to be missed, the student or parent must notify the studio at least 24 hours before the scheduled lesson in order to be eligible for a make-up lesson. Make-up lessons are limited to 1 per month, per lesson type.
To schedule your At Home make-up lesson, please contact us at music@rootsacademy.com.
During the beta launch of ROOTS @ Home, the cost for in-home lessons is the same as our studio lessons. We’re excited to offer this convenience to you without any additional fees.
The cost difference for in-home lessons covers the additional expenses associated with transportation and insurance for our mentors. While this may seem like an adjustment, it’s important to consider the valuable benefits.
By choosing in-home lessons, you’re not only investing in a premium learning experience but also saving significant time and fuel costs that would otherwise be spent on commuting to the studio. This convenience allows you to maximize your musical journey while enjoying the comfort of your home. We believe it’s a worthwhile investment in both your music education and your overall convenience.
Similar to our in-studio lessons, gratuity is not expected or accepted for ROOTS @ Home lessons. Our focus is on providing exceptional music education, and your satisfaction with the lessons is our primary goal.
While we plan to offer group lessons through ROOTS @ Home in the future, this option is not available during the beta launch. Stay tuned for updates as we expand our offerings.
To set up the ideal lesson and practice environment at home, please refer to the comprehensive guide available on our website: Music Learning and Practice at Home. This resource provides valuable tips and recommendations to ensure a productive and enjoyable music lesson experience in your home.
Your Mentor will arrive approximately 5 minutes prior to your scheduled lesson time in order to get set and maximize teaching time. After the lesson, they will connect with a parent/guardian to give an update on progress and will send detailed Lesson Notes through your ROOTS Music Portal within 24 hours of the lesson.
If the student’s mentor is unable to teach a lesson, we will provide an excellent substitute. We will notify you of who your substitute mentor will be prior to your lesson. If a substitute mentor is not available, we will contact you by email and/or phone to reschedule the lesson, regardless of the once-a-month make-up policy that applies to student-initiated lesson cancellations.
Unfortunately, no. While we understand the desire to maintain continuity with your mentor, most of our studio mentors have chosen to retain their studio lesson time slots and are not transitioning to at-home lessons. However, rest assured that we carefully match you with a new mentor who is well-suited to your learning needs and goals, ensuring a seamless transition to your at-home music lessons. Our priority—and guarantee—is to provide you with the best possible learning experience.
CODA is a proprietary progress tracking system designed exclusively by our team of mentors at ROOTS to empower students, ensuring they are set up to thrive as they pursue new levels of creativity. Learn more about CODA and the various levels of achievement by visiting our CODA webpage.
CODA is primarily utilized by mentors in the lesson room to ensure that students are receiving a consistent, comprehensive and well-rounded music education. Each level of CODA contains a rubric — a set of content standards that mentors use to assess and evaluate a student’s progression toward proficiency with their instrument. Lessons will continue to be tailored to each students’ interests and creativity. CODA simply ensures that progress is always being made, measured and celebrated.
Levels are determined both by proficiency and time invested, so in most cases, skipping levels is not possible. However, if you feel your student is needing more of a challenge, please consult their mentor for an appropriate recommendation.
The CODA system is now part of the standard curriculum for ROOTS music lessons. Participation isn’t optional in that sense. Please know that this system is specifically designed to encourage and inspire your student to achieve more and reach their musical goals. It will never be used to make them feel like they’re not winning or not good enough. Levels are based on proficiency and not graded.
We LOVE this question! You can enhance your student’s experience with active, positive encouragement. Knowing they have your support will cultivate your child’s interest and keep them open to learning and growing as an artist. It’s as easy as taking a few moments to be present with them while they practice and cheering them on when they rise above a challenge.
Music Tuition
In-home music lessons include a $40/month convenience and travel fee.
A $50 registration fee is due at enrollment.
Registration fees are non-refundable.
30-MINUTES/WEEK
- 30-Minute Weekly Lessons
- Based on 45 Lessons a Year
- Perform in Showcases
- 30-Day Guarantee
45-MINUTES/WEEK
- 45-Minute Weekly Lessons
- Based on 45 Lessons a Year
- Perform in Showcases
- 30-Day Guarantee
60-MINUTES/WEEK
- 60-Minute Weekly Lessons
- Based on 45 Lessons a Year
- Perform in Showcases
- 30-Day Guarantee
Questions?
Questions?
If you have any questions about our program, please don't hesitate to call or email one of our team members:
Emily Lindsey - Music Director
Josh Ashley - Music Operations Manager
Lori Kairdolf - Scheduling Coordinator
Alexys Halstesgard - Music Operations Coordinator
music@rootsacademy.com
(615) 804-1177, ext. 1