While some musical instruction is available in public schools, it is limited to the major wind and brass instruments. To learn to play other instruments, including strings, and more importantly, to make rapid progress, you need to work with a private instructor. Having your own teacher who is specialized in your instrument is an invaluable learning experience: it may be the only time in your life when you will work, just you and your teacher, in a structured learning environment. Fortunately, there are now in our area very well-qualified teachers for many of the principal musical instruments. Private lessons cost about $10-$15 and one lesson a week is usually necessary. The teachers below are available and recommended. They can help you find the instrument of your choice for purchase and rental in order to start lessons.