FAQ
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What makes Sound Before Sight Studios different from other music schools?
We focus on an ear-based learning approach, helping students play songs they enjoy from the very beginning. Instead of years of drills before making music, students learn to recognize patterns, improvise, and play by ear — skills that make music both fun and lasting.
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What instruments do you teach?
We currently offer lessons in piano, voice, guitar, bass, and drums. Our teachers are experienced musicians who specialize in helping beginners through intermediate students grow in both skill and confidence.
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Do you offer online or in-person lessons?
Both! We teach students online across the country and offer in-person lessons in Elk Grove, California. Our online lessons are highly interactive and allow students to learn with their instruments right in front of them.
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What ages do you teach?
We work with students as young as five years old and have adults in our studio as well. Our ear-based approach adapts to the age, goals, and learning style of each student.
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How much do lessons cost?
Our lessons are set up on a monthly subscription plan. Pricing depends on lesson length and format. Please contact us or schedule a Discovery Call for current rates and details.
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Do students need prior experience?
Not at all! Many of our students are complete beginners when they start with us. Our method makes it possible to play real songs quickly, even without prior training.
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What if the student already knows how to read music?
That’s great! Reading music is a valuable skill, but many students who only learn by reading struggle to play freely without sheet music. Our approach helps them connect their ears to their instrument, giving them the flexibility to both read and play by ear. Students who already read music often find our method gives them a whole new level of freedom, confidence, and creativity.
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How is this different than just watching YouTube videos to learn songs?
YouTube can be helpful for picking up a song here or there, but it doesn’t provide a structured learning path or personal guidance. Our teachers don’t just show students what to play — we teach them how to recognize patterns, improvise, and understand music at a deeper level so they can play any song, not just the one in the video. Plus, students benefit from accountability, encouragement, and customized instruction that videos simply can’t offer.
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What if we miss a lesson?
We know life happens! We offer make-up options and rescheduling flexibility so students don’t lose progress when things come up.
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How do you keep parents updated on progress?
We keep regular notes either in the student’s notebook or via a Google Doc shared with the student and teacher. The details of what the child is learning are available at any time. And Parents will see not only that their child is improving, but also that they are enjoying the process.
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Can you prepare students for performances or church music?
Yes! Many of our students learn to play confidently in church, school performances, and recitals. Our method builds both skill and confidence for real-life playing opportunities. We also offer Jam Session opportunities for students to get coaching while playing with others.
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What does the process look like to get started?
We begin with a 15-minute Discovery Call to learn about your child’s goals and experiences. After that, we schedule a free trial lesson so you can experience our method firsthand before committing. If you decide to continue, we will schedule your lessons and give you access to our online community. Schedule your call here →