Applied Lessons Frequently Asked Questions

What are Applied Lessons?

Applied Lessons are private, one on one lessons with a qualified instructor in voice, piano, or an instrumental area.

Who teaches Applied Lessons?

We have three categories of instructors teaching Applied Lessons at Millikin; however, not all categories are available in every given discipline.

Millikin Faculty

These instructors are current or retired School of Music faculty members at Millikin University.

Preparatory Faculty

These instructors hold degrees in music but do not currently teach in the School of Music at Millikin University. They are often K-12 music teachers in and around the Decatur area.

Student Instructors

These instructors are upper level Millikin students who have been selected to teach lessons by the School of Music faculty.

How old does my child need to be?

Oftentimes this depends on the readiness, discipline, and desire of the student and the policies of our instructors. Generally, piano lessons and some string lessons start in early elementary school while other instrumental lessons begin around age 9/10 and beyond. We only offer applied lessons to vocalists that are in High School. For younger vocalists, we strongly recommend participating in the Millikin Children’s Choir program.

How much does it cost?

The cost for lessons depends on the category of instructor and the duration of the lessons. Spring 2020 tuition rates are listed below:

Prep Tuition Rates Spring or Fall (based on 15 week term)	30 Minute Lessons	45 Minute Lessons	60 Minute Lessons
MU Faculty Current or retired Millikin School of Music Faculty	$25 per lesson	$37.50 per lesson	$50 per lesson
Preparatory Faculty Has a college degree; does not teach university level courses in the School of Music at Millikin University	$20 per lesson	$30 per lesson	$40 per lesson
MU Student Instructor Current MU student who has been recommended by University faculty.	$15 per lesson	$22.50 per lesson	$30 per lesson

When are payments due?

Prior to taking the first lesson of the term, a $50 non-refundable deposit (credited toward the cost of lessons) must be paid to the Preparatory Department. The remaining term balance may be paid in two increments according to the payment schedule below. All families will receive an e-bill each month with their current balance. It is the student/family’s responsibility to ensure that payments are received by the appropriate deadline. Please ensure the Preparatory Department always has current contact information to prevent billing issues.

Lessons will cease if no payments have been made on an account. Under no circumstances may a student begin lessons for the next term until the prior term is paid in full.

Payment Schedule	1/2 Tuition Fee Due	Remaining ½ Tuition Fee Due
Fall 2019	October 18, 2019	November 22, 2019
Spring 2020	February 21, 2020	March 20, 2020
Summer 2020	June 26, 2020	July 24, 2020

I signed up but haven’t heard from anyone yet, what should I do?

At the beginning of every semester, it is oftentimes frustrating that we do not have a quick turn-around of placing students with teachers. This is because most of our students and faculty are not settled in their schedules until the end of the first week of classes. We do our best to start the process; however, it is sometimes late August or early September (or early February in the Spring term) before students are officially placed with an instructor. If you fear your contract or name might have fallen off the list or want to check on the status, please contact the Preparatory Department at preparatory@millikin.edu or (217) 425-4698.

Who do I contact if I have a question or concern?

Please contact the Preparatory Department at preparatory@millikin.edu or 425-4698.