Frequently Asked Questions
Why take private lessons?
Learning good technique is essential to mastering any skill, and bad habits can take years to unlearn. Private instruction also gives students the individual attention they often miss in school programs. Whatever your goals, your teacher will tailor a lesson plan to fit your needs:
• Beginners build a strong foundation at their own pace.
• Advanced students get expert feedback for auditions and performances.
• Hobbyists enjoy learning in a relaxed, personalized setting.
Plus, neuroscientists have shown that music study supports cognitive growth and academic success!
Why choose Foxes Music School?
We’re proud to offer high-quality, accessible music education for all:
• Experienced, carefully vetted instructors
• Flexible scheduling—start or stop anytime with 2 weeks’ notice
• Rates designed to be affordable for families
• Full-service music store for instruments, accessories, and repairs
• Serving Falls Church for over 70 years—we truly love music and our community!
What age is best to start?
We welcome all ages and levels! However, we find private lessons most effective for students age 7 and up. We’re glad to assess younger students on a trial basis, and can recommend a few other great local studios with programs geared towards young beginners.
• Full-service music store for instruments, accessories, and repairs
• Serving Falls Church for over 70 years—we truly love music and our community!
Can I try a lesson before committing?
Yes! Start with one paid lesson. If it’s not a good fit, our coordinator will set you up with another teacher, or provide local references.
How long are lessons and how often?
Lessons are weekly—no biweekly or drop-ins.
• 30 minutes is great for beginners
• 45–60 minutes may be suitable for intermediate/advanced students
What’s your cancellation policy?
We’re proud to offer high-quality, accessible music education for all:
• Experienced, carefully vetted instructors
• Flexible scheduling—start or stop anytime with 2 weeks’ notice
• Rates designed to be affordable for families
• Full-service music store for instruments, accessories, and repairs
• Serving Falls Church for over 70 years—we truly love music and our community!
How do I schedule a make up?
Email lessons@foxesmusic.com or ask your teacher (they’ll confirm with the coordinator). Starting May 2026, you can self-schedule in the portal.
Why can’t I make up a same-day sick cancellation?
Your timeslot is a standing reservation, and your teacher spending teach each week preparing for your lesson. For this reason, we require 24+ hours’ notice.
Can I change my regular lesson time?
Yes! Please contact our coordinator anytime to request a permanent change.
How do I pay?
Invoices are emailed on the 1st for the previous month’s lessons. We accept all major cards, ACH bank transfers, cash and check:
• Online via invoice link
• At the front counter
• Autopay option available
Do you offer discounts?
We don’t have any discounts or tiered rates – all lessons are $45/half-hour.
Can two kids share one lesson?
No, each student needs their own timeslot. However, we’ll do our best to arrange back-to-back or concurrent lessons.
What if my teacher cancels?
You’ll be notified via email/text/phone, and receive a makeup or account credit.
Are lessons held on holidays?
No lessons are held on the following holidays: Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas+Eve, New Year’s+Eve, Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day. Individual teachers may take additional holidays off, and will notify you in advance.
What about bad weather?
We’ll notify you ASAP. Please note – we don’t follow local school calendars, and may be open when local schools are closed.
Do you offer group lessons or in home lessons?
No—lessons are one-on-one, held here at our store studios. Some teachers also offer virtual lessons.
Do you have recitals?
Piano and violin recitals are generally held once per year. We hope to offer additional recital opportunities in the future.
What should I bring?
Your instrument, music books (if any), notebook, and a positive attitude! Studios are stocked with amps and accessories.
How much should I practice?
Daily practice makes lessons fun and effective. Try to shoot for:
• Young beginners: 10–20 min/day
• Intermediate students: 20-40 min/day
• Advanced students: 30–60 min/day
Can I sit in on my child’s lesson?
Yes, especially for young beginners. However, studio space is limited, and some larger instruments make it tricky. We encourage parent involvement and are always happy to answer questions.
How do I reach the studio administrator?
Email: lessons@foxesmusic.com
Call/text: 703-831-7639
How do I update my information and preferences?
Update anytime in the portal.
What else is the student portal for?
Your account, history and preferences are all tracked through the Student Portal, including:
• Calendar of upcoming lessons
• Attendance history and notes
• Invoices, payment history and payment portal
• Your information and communication preferences
• Student tools like practice log
Will I get reminders?
Yes—email and SMS reminders the day before each lesson. Opt in/out via the portal.