Frequently Asked Questions

Eligibility


Who is eligible to be a Through the Staff (TTS) student?

Any student musician from 2nd-12th grade in the U.S. who has some level of experience (TTS does not teach absolute beginners) on their instrument is eligible to apply to TTS.

Priority is given in admissions to students who demonstrate in their application that they:

  • cannot afford private lessons

  • live in communities with little to no access to music education

  • qualify for free or reduced lunch through their school district

  • lost access to music education due to the Covid-19 pandemic

Students are not eligible if they:

  • live outside of the U.S.

  • have no experience on their instrument of choice prior to the start of the TTS semester

  • currently pay for private lessons

  • fall outside of the 2nd-12th grade age range


Who is eligible to be a TTS teacher?

Any musician who is in college or conservatory (undergraduate or graduate) is eligible to apply. High school seniors may also apply if they have been accepted to a collegiate music program. Eligibility requirements for teachers:

  • must demonstrate a high level of technical facility and musicality in the area that they intend to teach

  • must demonstrate the maturity and professionalism of a teacher working directly with children

  • we are strongly interested in applicants who have prior experience teaching musicians under the age of 18 (however, teachers without experience are still eligible) and demonstrate a vested interest in contributing to the TTS mission

View a sample Teacher Contract here.

Program Details


What types of private lessons are offered at TTS?

We offer instruction for all standard orchestral instruments, jazz instruments, conducting, composition, and voice. To see our current list of available teachers, please refer to Our Teachers page. If your instrument is not represented and you would like us to consider recruiting a teacher for your instrument, please send us a message and let us know!

How much does TTS cost?

This program is completely free of charge. We believe that every student has the right to a lifelong musical journey; that includes free private lessons, too!

How much instruction time do students receive?

Teachers work with their students in online private lessons every week for the duration of the enrolled semester. The length of the lesson is determined by the student’s age and area of study, at a time decided on by the

  • High school students and non-vocalists receive 1 hour of instruction time each week

  • Vocalists and students not yet enrolled in high school (junior high, middle school, elementary, etc.) receive 30 minutes of instruction time each week

  • More time may be added at the discretion of the student and teacher

How long can students participate in TTS?

Participation is expected for the full length of the TTS semester the student is enrolled in. There are three semesters each year (Spring, Summer, and Fall) that each run an average of 14 weeks. Once a student is accepted into TTS, they may opt to continue their enrollment for as long as they remain eligible and in good standing .

Can students have more than one teacher?

Out of respect for our teachers time and to provide as many opportunities for new students to obtain free lessons, we limit each student to only having one teacher in their respective Studio. Working with one teacher ensures that TTS’ musical instruction is as clear and effective as possible.

Can students pick their own teacher?

Each match is hand-selected with care by TTS’ Administrative Team. Student-teacher matches are based on a careful review of both parties’ applications, personality, musical level, and availability.

If necessary, can students end their participation in the program?

Parents may terminate their student’s enrollment by sending an email at least one week in advance to their matched TTS teacher and to info@throughthestaff.org. Because each teacher is dedicating a significant amount of time and energy into working with each student, we encourage students to consider taking a short break (1-3 weeks) in lieu of termination if possible.

How does TTS address student-teacher safety and security?

Safety is one of our top priorities at Through the Staff. Our safety guidelines during our lessons include (but are not limited to):

  • screening all teacher applicants’ criminal histories

  • receiving written consent from students’ parent or legal guardian prior to the first lesson

  • introducing teachers to parents at the beginning of the student’s first lesson

  • providing clear paths of communication between students, teachers, and parents

  • informing teachers and students of expectations and appropriate safety guidelines prior to their first lesson

  • carefully assessing teacher applications for excellent personal character, maturity, and professionalism prior to being invited to teach