Current Students › Tracks explained
Study tracks

Three tracks, one school.

Every student lands on one of three tracks. The track sets lesson length, practice, performance expectations and price. Your teacher helps you choose, and it can change as the student grows.

Recreational Track

Designed for a more laid-back experience, this track is perfect for students who want to learn at a relaxed pace and explore their own style without the pressure of structured, intensive training and obligation.

Lesson timeCan choose 30, 45, or 60 minute weekly lesson time
Performance/ParticipationOptional (no required recitals or masterclasses)
RepertoireVery Flexible (movie music, popular songs, etc.)
PracticeApprox. 30 mins a day, or what you and your teacher agree on.
CommitmentLow
PriceStandard tuition

Perks

  • Highly educated and experienced teacher
  • You have the option to participate in 1 H&S recital/year and other events organized by H&S
  • Intensity is up to you!

How do I know I am Recreational?

  • You prefer a relaxed, low-pressure approach to learning music
  • You want flexibility in your repertoire (movie music, pop songs, etc.)
  • Participation in recitals and your lesson length are up to you
  • You’re learning primarily for enjoyment and personal growth
Heads upWhile the Recreational Track is designed to be flexible and low-pressure, students are still expected to attend lessons consistently and demonstrate steady effort. If a student shows ongoing lack of attendance, practice, or engagement, their teacher may recommend a temporary break from lessons or reevaluation of enrollment.

Traditional Track

Ideal for most students, this track supports steady, consistent skill development over time. This would include the majority of students. It offers a well-rounded, balanced learning experience that builds confidence and a strong foundation in key music skills, while still allowing some flexibility.

Lesson time45 minutes (unless age 6 or younger) or 60 minutes
Performance/ParticipationMinimum one recital per semester & one masterclass per year
RepertoirePrimarily standard classical or contemporary curriculum; study of Music Theory required
PracticeApprox 1 hour a day, 5 days a week, up to student and teacher.
CommitmentModerate
PriceStandard tuition

Perks

  • Highly educated and experienced teacher
  • Use of practice studios, scheduled with front office
  • Opportunity to perform in masterclasses + studio classes
  • Scheduling priority following Conservatory track students

To be considered for the Traditional Track, students must:

  • Attend at least one masterclass and two recitals within the past year (showing their commitment to the participation requirements of this track)
  • Receive teacher approval based on readiness and commitment
Heads upIf a student does not complete the requirements of their current track, they may be moved to a lower track at the discretion of their teacher and the program director. This ensures students are placed in the environment that best supports their growth, consistency, and level of commitment.

Conservatory Track

For committed students considering competitions & college prep, this track demands discipline, fast skill growth, and focused training with more performance opportunities.

Lesson timeStarts at 60 minute weekly lessons, no exceptions
Performance/ParticipationAttend every masterclass & studio class, multiple recitals per year, & at least one competition per year
RepertoireClassical or classical contemporary, mostly competition type repertoire, but at any level. Study of Music Theory and History required.
PracticeMinimum 1 hour a day, should be working towards 2 and higher
CommitmentHigh
Price+$25 per month

Perks

  • All perks of other tracks
  • Full access to H&S library + free instrumental/score rentals
  • One makeup lesson per semester, with teacher’s approval
  • Scheduling priority
  • Priority for guest artist sessions, chamber placements, etc.
  • Headliners for big H&S recitals
  • Potential for Scholarships
  • Audition recordings in the recital hall at no cost
  • Opportunities to apprentice in collaborative roles (accompanying other students/classes with training)
  • Special letters of recommendation outlining their commitment to their studies and elite status at the school

To be considered for the Conservatory Track, students must:

  • Complete a student interview and audition
  • Be approved by both the Department Head and Conservatory Director
  • Demonstrate the discipline, skill level, and commitment required for a high-performance training environment
Heads upIf a student does not complete the requirements of their current track, they may be moved to a lower track at the discretion of their teacher and the program director. This ensures students are placed in the environment that best supports their growth, consistency, and level of commitment.
Not sure which track fits? Ask your teacher, or email the front office at admin@hammerandstrings.com. Your full written policy lives on the Current Students page.