F.A.Q.

Absolutely! The classes are designed to be repeated. We’ll vary the repertoire and reinforce the same skills. Take the same class as many times as you need to feel comfortable with the skills before moving up to the next level.

You’ll need your instrument (see below for recommended places to buy or rent [see note below]), and a tuner or tuner app. Guitar, ukulele, mandolin, and bluegrass banjo players will want to bring picks. Guitar, ukulele, and banjo players will also want to bring a capo.

Many students benefit from recording the teacher as the skills and tunes are demonstrated, so feel free to bring a recording device, like your phone.

Second Half is an informal gathering of teachers and students that provides an opportunity for them to share, make music together, and learn from each other. Whatever the format may be, jam, singalong, or impromptu get-together, students are encouraged to join in. The level of expertise on your instrument doesn’t matter. Come and strum chords, sing along, improvise melodies, or simply tap your feet. While the class is devoted to studying a chosen topic or instrument, the second half is an opportunity to share that learning with the community.

We currently have an in-person jam in between our Wednesday daytime classes. Join us at the Gillespie Building to play a bit at lunch! We’ll get underway at 11:30 am, out under the oak tree as weather permits. We’ll go inside if it rains. Bring a lunch, bring an instrument, and enjoy the afternoon!

Second Half sessions are included each term, at no extra cost, for all students registered in any other class. If you’re not registered in any other classes, however, you can register for just the Second Half by clicking here!

You sure can! Second Half sessions are included each term, at no extra cost, for all students registered in any other class. If you’re not registered in any other classes, however, you can register for just the Second Half by clicking here!

We recommend you buy your instrument from a reputable dealer who will set up your instrument so that it will be easy to play. Old strings, or strings that are high above the fretboard are hard to play. Below are a few shops we highly recommend.

Maple Street Guitars
Guitars
Mandolins
Banjos
Ukuleles

Beau Vinci Violins
Violin rental or purchase
Will deliver

Voss Violins
Violin rental or purchase

Our instructors can take a look at your instrument to see is it’s playable. If you’d like someone to look at it before the beginning of class, email us at info@frankhamiltonschool.org to make an appointment for someone to examine the instrument.

Most of our classes are all in the evening, and our students are usually adults. Children who would be comfortable with adult classmates are welcome, but if your child is pre-teen, we ask that you be present during class.

We occasionally have classes designed specifically for children. If you have a child interested in a specific instrument, let us know so we can check into the possibility of creating a class. And keep an eye on our class list!

Check back with us here, or email info@frankhamiltonschool.org to let us know of your interest.