Frequently Asked Questions
Which instruments and programs are offered at MEC?
MEC offers lessons on almost all instruments and voice. Private music lessons can be taught with both traditional and adaptive methods to accommodate a variety of learning styles and special needs.
We also occasionally offer individual or group instruction in songwriting, music theory, student ensembles, and more! Don’t see your subject of interest listed? Just ask and we’d be happy to work with you on designing a program that fits your needs.
Which instrument do you recommend for someone who is young or inexperienced?
Many younger students start on piano before graduating to other instruments. The basic nature of piano is simple to comprehend and achieve success with quickly. It also offers the opportunity to develop fine motor skills and reading skills that will be required to play other instruments.
If you’re unsure about which instrument your child is interested in playing, or whether they’re interested in music lessons at all, just ask us for a FREE trial lesson and one of our instructors would be happy to advise you on the best options. No payment or commitment required!
How long and how frequent are the lessons?
Beginning students typically start with 30-minute weekly lessons. More mature students may start with either 30 or 45-minute weekly lessons, depending on their experience and developmental readiness. Since lesson plans are tailored to each student, your teacher may recommend a longer lesson as the student improves, or multiple lessons per week.
Where is the MEC studio located?
We currently operate out of two studios, located in East Rochester and Watertown. Our East Rochester studio is located in the main atrium area of the Piano Works Mall: 349 West Commercial Street, Suite 1000, East Rochester, NY 14445. Our Watertown studio is located in the Marcy Building at 169 Polk Street, Watertown, NY 13601.
What are your hours?
Our studio hours are by appointment and contingent upon individual instructor availability, but generally fall between 3pm and 8pm during the week. Our Watertown studio also offers lessons and ensembles on Saturdays. Lesson times outside the aforementioned hours may be available upon request.
What sets you apart from other music studios in the Rochester and Watertown areas?
In addition to their musical qualifications, we actively recruit instructors with some level of special education experience. This allows us to more easily accommodate students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD/ADHD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Dyslexia, Visual Impairment, Hearing Impairment, Epilepsy, Tourette’s Syndrome, Alzheimer’s, Anxiety Disorders, and a variety of other special needs. Parents and caregivers who come to us will not need to worry about whether or not their assigned teacher is familiar with the student’s diagnosis and able to adapt instruction accordingly.
Additionally, while both of our studios are fully handicap-accessible, we also offer online instruction and limited residential services for students who prefer to take lessons in the comfort of their own home.
Are your programs only for students with disabilities?
No. We accept students of all ages and abilities.
Do you sell/rent musical instruments for students to use?
We do not currently sell or rent instruments. Students may purchase instruments and other supplies at their local music store. If you are not sure what to buy, ask your teacher for assistance.
How much do lessons cost, and what types of payments are accepted?
Our current monthly tuition rates can be found here. We accept most major credit cards and personal checks. Credit card payments can be made manually online or automatically by signing up for our auto-payment program.
Do you accept Self-Direction?
Yes, we are able to accept payment from most self-direction agencies. If you are planning to utilize this option, please let us know in advance so we can coordinate with your FI.
How often will I have to pay tuition?
Tuition is billed in advance and typically paid on a monthly basis, although clients may opt into a quarterly payment schedule. For those enrolled in our auto-payment program, tuition payments are automatically withdrawn on the 1st of every month.
Do I receive a tuition credit if my child misses lessons?
We use a flat-rate tuition model and strongly encourage all of our teachers and families to make up missed lessons when possible. There are a number of ways in which lessons can be made up, as described in our Studio Policies. In extenuating circumstances, tuition credits may be offered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the billing office if you have specific questions.