About
My name is Adam Sweet. I have a BA in Music from Hampshire College, and certificates in violin and performance from the New England Conservatory of Music in Weston. I opened my Studio in 1986 and have been teaching mostly adults and teenagers how to enjoy roots music on the fiddle and mandolin ever since. I always have openings in my studio. I teach all styles, specializing in Bluegrass, Celtic, Klezmer and Classical I teach all ages, specializing in Adults and mature Teenagers
I love teaching! Since 1986, I have been working with adults and teenagers teaching them how to play violin-family and mandolin-family instruments. I love my work.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Private lessons are one hour a week. There is a minimum of 3 students for group classes.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a BA in Music and certificates in violin, performance and chamber music coaching.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Private lessons are $65 an hour in person at my location, $75 an hour if I have to travel. Group classes are $15 each.
How did you get started teaching?
I have been teaching friends to play mandolin and violin since high school. After graduating from college, I decided I wanted to specialize in teaching adults, so I took several continuing education courses about working with adults. I opened my studio in 1986 and have been teaching since.
What types of students have you worked with?
I work with students of all ages, mostly adults.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Members of the Springfield Mandolin Orchestra performed for an audience of retired and elderly at the Arbors Assisted Living facility in Amherst. We played Mozart and Bach. They loved it!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure you are committed to at least a year of daily practice, 30-60 minutes. Set aside money for lessons, rental or purchase of a decent instrument and sheet music and accessories. Committing to playing a musical instrument is serious business, but it is a skill that you will carry with you for the rest of your life, and something that will bring great joy and happiness to you and your community.