Clarinet Instructor
Meet the Teacher
Welcome! My name is Laura Cyr, and I am a wife, mother, and music educator (18+ years).
I offer clarinet lessons for all skill levels, ages 9 and up.
I have three kiddos, two of which are old enough to take instrument lessons themselves. Naturally, they both chose instruments that I am not as comfortable with (violin and piano), so we made the decision to hire lesson teachers. The irony... However, this situation has given me a different perspective: music lessons through the parent's point of view. There are times when the girls become frustrated during a practice session and they need encouragement to persist. Conversely, there are times where their efforts "click" and they get through a plateau. Not only are their instrumental skills improving but they are being given opportunities to practice perseverance, patience, delayed gratification, and positive thinking. I hope to be able to offer the same opportunities for you or your young musician.
Before having children, I was a Director of Elementary Instrumental Education. I also taught elementary orchestra, middle school jazz band, high school marching band, low brass instruction for the Summer Youth Music School at UNH, and private clarinet lessons for all ability levels. I have also taught private lessons for saxophone, trumpet, trombone, and French horn for beginner to intermediate musicians. Many of my students have auditioned for and participated in the MMEA Southeastern District Festivals. I am incredibly proud of the work they have put in to achieving their goals.
Please contact me with any questions or to set up your first lesson.
My Story
My Services
Private Clarinet Lessons
Having a solid foundation of technique and musical knowledge starts at the very first lesson. Each lesson is tailored to the individual student and their needs. Throughout the year, students work on proper care of the instrument, playing technique, tone quality, air support, dexterity, scales, method book and solo repertoire, and more. Often, we play our way through a method or etude book which includes a variety of music/exercises that focus on specific goals (i.e. articulations, rhythms, patterns, etc.). I like to pair method books with a longer piece of repertoire that would complement the student's efforts.
Practice
Students should play at least 5 days per week for 20 minutes per day for beginners and 30-45 minutes per day for advanced students. It is beneficial to play a little bit each day for retention, stamina, muscle development, and joy! One half hour lesson per week is appropriate for most students though longer lessons are sometimes advisable. Please reach out for availability.
Location
While lessons can take place virtually via Zoom, in-person lessons are preferable. Lessons can take place in your home, at your child's school, or in another appropriate location. Pets must be kept on leash or crated until they decide they love me as much as I love them. Yes, I have taught with dogs, cats, bunnies, hermit crabs, and Guinea pigs roaming around my feet! While based in Wrentham, I can provide lessons to students in the following towns:
Foxboro * Franklin * Mansfield * Medfield * Millis * Norfolk * Norwood * Plainville * Walpole * Wrentham
Missed Lessons
Please give at least 24 hours' notice if a lesson will be missed and you wish to reschedule. Rescheduling is dependent upon teacher availability and is NOT guaranteed. If you know of any upcoming conflicts, please share with your teacher so arrangements can be made for those dates. Lesson compensation will not be refunded for missed lessons.
Compensation
The first lesson is considered a trial and is free! Compensation is $40 per half hour paid in cash, check, or Venmo. Lessons are pre-paid for the upcoming month due at the first lesson of the month. An invoice will be e-mailed or sent via text the week before the payment is due. Prepayment for the school year gives a discount of two free lessons (a savings of $80!).
Contact Me
