Toronto School for Strings

Private Lessons

We offer instruction in Violin (traditional and Suzuki), Viola, Cello (traditional and Suzuki), Double Bass, Guitar, Electric Bass, Theory, Ear Training, and Jazz Piano.

Students have a personalized lesson plan for each year of instruction which may include preparation for Music Festivals, Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) Examinations, Solo Recitals, Workshops, Ensembles and Orchestra, Musicianship.

Students enrolled in the TSS Suzuki Program have a private lesson plus bi-weekly group class which features technique, repertoire review, reading skills, in a fun and encouraging atmosphere.

Monthly Masterclass, Cello Choir for Teenagers and Chamber Music Coaching (Group Classes) are also available.

Lesson Structure

Generally, weekly lessons. Suzuki instruction in addition to preparation for Royal Conservatory of Music Examinations.

We now offer a "Flex-Plan" for students who cannot take lessons on a consistent weekly basis, such as adults with a changing schedule, or students taking a second instrument. Lessons are paid in advance, and are taken by appointment, subject to the teacher's schedule. A premium (10%) is charged, for the service. If less than 24 hours is given before cancellation, the lesson is charged for, the same as with regular weekly lessons. Time lost because of a student's lateness cannot be made up. One month's notice must be given prior to termination of lessons. This plan is available with the approval of the Principal, Julian Fisher, or the Office Manager, David Stone, and the teacher.

Special Lessons

We would like to let you know that if you would like some extra lesson time, whether on a regular basis, or on more casual, stand-by manner, that this is always an option. These lessons will mainly take place at off-peak times or if we have a cancellation. This can be quite helpful if you are preparing for an audition, recital, or examination.

TSS Attendance Policy

All students are required to read and sign the attendance policy.

Regular and punctual attendance is expected of all students. If it is necessary for you to miss a lesson, please let us know as soon as possible. We will try our best to accomodate changes. If the teacher cancels a lesson, every reasonable effort will be made to make up the lesson at a mutually convenient time.

Private lessons range in cost from $20 to $30 per half hour lesson. Lessons missed due to student absence are not refunded.

Music Lessons During School Hours

"A child is excused from attendance at school if,
- the child is absent from school for the purpose of receiving instruction in music and the period of absence does not exceed one-half day in any week" - Ontario Education Act, R.S.O. 1990, CHAPTER E.2, Part II, ss.21(2)(e)

Safe Arrival Policy

Any student who does not arrive within ten minutes of the lesson starting time gets a phone call, just in case something happens along the way.