What are private lessons? How are they structured?
Private lessons are regular one-on-one lessons between the instructor and the student, usually taking place once per week. They range from 30 minutes to 90 minutes.
What is the cost? Are there any additional costs (taxes, etc)?
There is a non-refundable $65 registration fee before private lessons can be registered at VSO SoM. That is paid upon initial registration and once per year before the start of the first lesson of the school year. The instructor rate differs; it is $87 per hour and higher. Music instruction services are not subject to tax.
Can I see lesson/scheduling options?
If you are a new student or would like to sign up for a new instrument that you are not currently enrolled in, please start by filling out our private lessons inquiry form, which will include your preferences. Our registration team will get back to the inquiry within 7 business days, and our registration team will recommend suitable instructor options based on proficiency level, age and preferences.
To change an instructor or to return to a previous instructor, please contact the registration team directly at privatelessons@vsoschoolofmusic.ca.
Can I register and pay for private lessons online by myself?
Due to the nature of processing personalized private lessons, registrations must be made through the registration team.
Can I register for a trial lesson to see if the instructor is a good fit for me?
Absolutely. We will work with you to find the instructor that best suits your needs. Trial lessons are charged at the instructor’s usual rate. Please note that the $65 annual registration fee applies before any lesson can be booked, including trial lesson(s).
Do I have to register for the full year?
No, students are not required to register for the full academic year. However, it’s important to note that lesson times are only reserved while lessons are actively scheduled. If you choose not to continue booking lessons on an ongoing basis, your reserved lesson time will be released.
Where do lessons take place?
Most lessons occur at the VSO School of Music, 843 Seymour Street, next to the Orpheum Theatre in Downtown Vancouver. We also offer offsite lessons (online or at-home studios of VSO SoM instructors). All lessons (onsite or offsite) are charged at the same rate, based on the rate of the paired instructor. If you would like to explore such flexible options, please reach out to our registration team at privatelessons@vsoschoolofmusic.ca
Do you offer bursaries or financial aid?
The VSO School of Music is proud to provide access to music lessons and programs to families needing financial assistance. The application is open all year round with three termly application deadlines. For more information, please click here.