Programs

Clavier-Werke offers a variety of programs and classes to fit the needs of each and every student.

Adult Lessons

Adults are welcome to try private lessons in any instrument we offer. It is never too late to learn! We also offer the Music Parents Plan designed specifically for parents of Clavier-Werke students.

Private Lessons

The foundation of our program is the weekly or bi-weekly private lesson. Lesson length starts at as little as 30 minutes per week and goes up to 60 minutes twice per week.

Theory Lab

Boost your child’s progress significantly by enrolling in theory lab. The most basic music fundamentals are taught every week throughout the year. Fundamentals like note, interval and key signature recognition; activities teaching rhythm values and patterns; sightreading and ear training will help your child learn and memorize their pieces more quickly. Recognizing the key signature of a piece helps the student understand how the melody is constructed and how the chords support the melody. Reviewing, drilling and memorizing these very important concepts on a weekly basis throughout the year under the supervision of a teacher will not only motivate your child to practice more because they have more tools to work with but because these skills are initially difficult to grasp. The first two years of a beginner’s studies will be much easier with assistance from the lab teacher. Scheduling is easy and convenient. The thirty minute lab lesson is budget friendly, only one-third the cost of the private lesson. Help your child as they begin their musical studies by signing them up for lab!

Supplemental Lessons

Clavier-Werke offers a variety of classes that may be taken in conjunction with the private lesson. We will be happy to explain these classes in more detail to you as well as advise you about which ones are best for your child. All supplemental courses are subject to availability.

Performance Program

Our experience has shown that a group environment is critical to the overall experience of learning an instrument. Throughout the year, Clavier-Werke will sponsor master classes that will increase motivation and promote peer interaction while developing a broader understanding of the study of music. Students will have the opportunity to perform for an audience of peers and teachers in preparation for upcoming recitals. Students learn proper recital etiquette and how to listen, evaluate and discuss elements of each performance in a positive way. These groups will take the place of the regular private lesson for the week.

Clavier-Werke also hosts performance festivals thoughout the year and opportunities to participate in outside events via the Austin District Music Teachers Association and the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music.

Theory and Musicianship

A broader understanding of theory and mastery of musicianship are fundamental to growing musicians. Each year, Clavier-Werke hosts a series of examinations to assess students’ progress in these areas including sight reading, ear training, theory and basic instrument skills. All Clavier-Werke students are encouraged to participate. Trophies are awarded as students progress through designated levels. In most cases these groups will take the place of the regular private lesson for the week.

What we offer

Private and group instruction in the following areas:

Piano

The piano staff, headed up by Director Susan Allen is committed to making piano lessons fun and meaningful. We want to develop strong reading skills that last a lifetime. We encourage our students to play expressively and with proper technique. Students are featured in local recitals and festivals throughout the year.

Voice

We encourage each student’s intuitive ability to learn music by ear, including vocal exercises, singing, and performance. Students learn the fundamentals of a classical vocal training and then apply it to popular music. Learning music that inspires each individual is key; we ask students to bring in inspiration – CDs or tapes of songs they want to sing. Older students are encouraged to sightread.

Guitar

We offer guitar lessons and classes for students of all levels. Styles include Classical, Pop, Jazz, Rock, Blues, Country and Bluegrass. Our creative and progressive program emphasizes musicianship, theory, ear training, authenticity and passion in playing. We invite you to join us.

Strings: Violin, Viola and Cello

Clavier-Werke also includes cello, viola and violin instruction in our program. Our staff’s string instructors are Jon Carbin (cello), Rachel Garner (cello), Karli Leal (violin and viola), Justin Schieibel (violin) and Sean Riley (violin). Visit our Teachers section for more information on these gifted instructors.

Locations