Frequently Asked Questions...

Q. My child is 15 years old and never had any lessons. Can she still enroll in the Youth Conservatory?

A. Yes. The YC accepts students of any level of experience ages 4-18. There are even musicianship classes designed specifically for the late beginners.

Q. Does the YC offer private lessons in voice, guitar, violin, or any other instrument besides piano?

A. The Youth Conservatory is part of the Piano Program at Utah State and only offers private lessons for the piano. Students with an interest in other instruments are still welcome to participate in the musicianship classes, but should seek other sources for private instruction on other instruments. For information on teachers for voice or other instruments, we recommend you call the USU Music Department at (435) 797-3036.

Q. I'm not sure if I can make the entire payment by the deadline at the first of the semester. Is there any way I can spread out payments over the course of the semester?

A. To assist families in paying their tuition, we offer the option of paying your tuition in two or three payments over the course of the semester. We offer this service for no additional fee. Contact the YC office if you are interested in a payment plan (435) 797-3018.

Q. Do you have any scholarships available for Youth Conservatory students?

A. On a special, per-circumstance basis, the YC will consider offering partial or full-tuition scholarships to students who demonstrate professional promise, are serious about learning, and would not otherwise have an opportunity to participate in the program without special financial support. If you are interested in applying, please email the Youth Conservatory at: youthconservatory@gmail.com.

Q. Do I have to own a piano in order for my child to take piano lessons at the Youth Conservatory?

A. Yes. In order for a child to learn to play, dilligent daily practice is essential and most effective when a parent is able to remind the student of specific lesson goals. In some rare cases, a parent and child who do not own a piano should make arrangements with a neighbor or relative to practice daily on their piano. Practicing on electronic pianos is strongly discouraged.

Q. My student is not going to be a concert pianist, I just want him/her to learn the basics of piano playing that will be an asset for the rest of his/her life. Is the Youth Conservatory mostly interested in students who want to grow up to be serious musicians?

A. No! The Youth Conservatory at Utah State believes that musical education is a vital part of any child's pathway to success in life, regardless of their ultimate career or professional goals. The majority of students in the YC do not end up with careers in music. However, for the serious young musician, there is no better choice in the entire region than the USU Youth Conservatory. There are continuous competition winners at the state, national, and international levels who are students of the Youth Conservatory.