Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a registration appointment to sign up for classes?
A: Yes. All new students must make an appointment with the registrar to sign up for private or group classes. Classes are filled on a first come first served basis and there is no guarantee that you will receive your desired class.
Q: Is it necessary to sign up for all 12 weeks (8 weeks in Summer session) of the quarter?
A: We work on a quarterly basis and do not make special arrangements unless students sign up after the quarter has begun.
Q: Can I still sign up for lessons or classes after a quarter has begun?
A: Yes. Late registration begins immediately after New Student Registration and continues through the 8th or 9th week of the quarter (5th week of the Summer Quarter).
Q: What if I miss a lesson?
A: There is no credit, reimbursement or make-up for missed lessons. It is a courtesy to inform your teacher if you plan to miss a lesson and it is at the discretion of the teacher to provide a make-up lesson.
Q: What if I get sick and miss a lesson?
A: Teachers are not required to make up a missed lesson due to a student’s absence. A leave of absence may be granted by the teacher (with registrar’s approval) in cases of serious illness or injury.
Q: How do I apply for financial aid?
A: You must show proof of the family’s monthly net (after tax) income. If you are self-employed, you may submit bank statements and your tax return from the previous year. The sliding scale discount will be applied on the date this information is approved.
Q: How is the discount determined?
A: The sliding scale discount is based on your household’s size and the monthly net income of the family.
Q: Can I apply for a full scholarship?
A: Any student currently a junior in high school or younger can apply for a full scholarship if the family is receiving a CMC sliding scale discount. Students applying for a scholarship should have at least one year of instrument study at CMC and their current CMC teacher’s recommendation. Auditions are held in May.
Q: What if I am not happy with my class?
A: The registrar can work with you to find a better schedule, or you may drop the class after the first lesson. If you want to drop the class, notice must be given to the registrar at least 24 hours before the second week’s class in order to receive a reimbursement for the remaining lessons. You will then be charged only for the first lesson (and the registration fee, if applicable).
Q: Will I have the chance to perform for an audience?
A: We welcome all students to sign up for student recitals which are scheduled on Sundays throughout each quarter. There are also performance workshops hosted by faculty members. The instrument and the topic vary from quarter to quarter.
Q: Are there classes for students younger than 4 years old?
A: CMC is currently planning a new toddler’s music program on Saturday at the Mission Branch. Watch for information on the website or at the office.
Q: Are parents allowed to stay in the room where the class is held?
A: For private classes, parents are allowed to stay in the room with faculty approval. In group classes, parents are allowed to stay in the room for the first class only.
Q: Do you offer summer programs for kids?
A: Camp CMC is held at the Mission District Branch for a week in June every year. Check the website and Branch offices for up to date information on other classes.
Q: Can I register online?
A: No, but we hope to offer online registration in the near future.
Q: What can I do online from the website?
A: The CMC website now offers several options:
During new student registration: Schedule an appointment by clicking on the Google document link on the homepage (Mission Branch only).
After the quarter begins:
* Start late registration by clicking the Google document link on the homepage (Mission Branch only) and completing the online form. You will be contacted within 1 to 3 business days.
* View available lesson times. Select several options and call the office at (415) 647-6015. We will hold the lesson time for a maximum of 4 business days. If you are not applying for sliding scale, you may complete registration over the phone (Mission Branch only).
* Pay for your lessons. Click the Pay Now button on the homepage or under the Register section. This secure feature, offered by Paypal is available for current students only.
