FAQ
Please browse our frequently asked questions to see if your question about online music composition lessons has already been answered. If you're thinking about applying, please understand that we can only accept serious students. We feel it's a waste of time and money on the part of the student to only take a few lessons only to quit or stop taking lessons after a month. When students apply, they may be asked to complete a short assignment and submit it for evaluation. Upon successful completion of the assignment, students will be accepted into the studio. No feedback will be given for any pre-lesson submissions, regardless of acceptance.
Do You Offer Discounts for Students?
Student discount codes are available. If you're currently enrolled in a degree program, you can use the discount code "student" to receive 15% off the cost of lessons. The student discount may be used as long as you are enrolled in a program. During the summer, discounts are not available.
Do You Offer Discounts for New Students?
The new student discount is available on a one-time basis for any student. You don't have to use it on your first set of lessons; however, the discount is only good for one use. Use the discount code "new" to receive 5% off the total cost of your purchase.
What Are the Technology Requirements for Taking Lessons Online?
Students must meet the following technical requirements to take lessons online:
- Notation Program: Choose from Finale, Sibelius, or use the free MuseScore to submit your compositions. Students may also submit handwritten scores.
- Internet Access: You must have Internet access to download and submit your compositions. We also use Zoom to conduct lessons. Please ensure your connection is fast enough to take lessons.
- Webcam: A Webcam is necessary to participate in lessons. You will meet with your instructor at a scheduled time.
- Scanner or Camera: A scanner or camera, while not absolutely required, will make it easier to submit some handwritten assignments.
How Many Lessons Can I Take Per Month?
Students can take from 1-4 lessons per month. Students agree to automatic billing each month. Missed lessons must be scheduled and are at the discretion of the instructor. Lessons must be used in the month they are purchased.
What Qualifications Does the Instructor Have?
Kevin Ure has been active as a composer for over 25 years and has been teaching online since 1996. He was one of the first composers to offer online lessons and has trained composers with exceptional skill and promise. Many of his students have gone on to write video game music, work in universities, and work as freelance composers. As a composer, he has released two recordings that are available through Amazon, iTunes, Rhapsody, and several other venues. He holds a Masters in Music Composition from the University of Arizona, and has studied with the world's most prominent modern composers. He also teaches both undergraduate and graduate courses at The University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
How Long Does It Take to Receive Feedback on My Submissions?
Students are asked to submit their lessons the night before their scheduled lesson date. This allows time for the instructor to format and prepare the materials for the scheduled composition lessons. Lessons typically last about 45 minutes.
Do You Offer Refunds for Lessons?
Since you're paying to reserve time with the instructor that another student could use, there are no refunds offered for lessons. Exceptions can be made in exceptional circumstances, or when a student makes an error in placing a payment. In the event a refund is granted, please understand it can take up to 30 days to process the payment. The payment must first clear the bank account, and we must ensure that there are no issues with the credit before the payment is sent back. In cases where a student is unhappy with a lesson, the student may receive free credits for future lessons.
Do You Accept All Students That Apply?
We accept students who are willing to work hard. To ensure acceptance, it's a good idea to take your time when completing the application. Qualified students must show an ability to express themselves clearly in English, have a background in music theory, and typically have composed at least one composition. We are interested in students who show a commitment and devotion to learning to compose. If you don't yet know how to read music, composition lessons may not be the most economical option for you. It's best to take a community college course or self-study to learn the basics of music composition. The Musical Core playlist provides a good place to start. You do not need to take the course, but you can register for the public course by following the directions on The Musical Core informational website. Please note, while Kevin Ure wrote this text, he does not manage or run the website for the course. All communications about the course should be directed to Kendall Hunt.
Students that want to have a second look at a composition for undergraduate and graduate school admissions are welcome to apply for tutoring. We will provide you with an in-depth review of any issues in your composition so that you can have a better chance of gaining admission to the university of your choice.