FAQ'S & POLICIES
1) How do I know which program is right for me?
If it's not clear from reading the lab descriptions then give us a call and we can discuss it on the phone. But most of the time we can set up a free consultation for you to come in to the studio and talk in person to one of our instructors, and they will be able to help you figure our which route to go. It depends on your level of ability, your experience and previous training (if any) and also what you are hoping to get out of the program.
2) Do I need my own guitar? Yes you do! You need to own or borrow a guitar at least for the length of your lab, since you will not get very far if you can't practice during the week. You don't need a fancy guitar, just something that's comfortable for you and not broken!
3) Do I need to bring anything other than my guitar? What about amps and effects?
Our studio is customized so that we have everything you need. Just make sure you have a guitar strap with you (you can buy one here if you don't have one). You don't need any of your extra gear.
4) I think I will make more progress in private lessons...?
We don't blame you for making that assumption - it's probably true with a typical guitar class - or a thrown together group guitar lesson, but it's not true with our guitar labs. The majority of students make more progress in our guitar labs. Students who take our guitar labs progress faster and in a more rounded way than those who solely take private lessons. We believe the reasons include the outstanding curriculum and approach, the way the students are immediately applying what they are learning and seeing how everything fits together, the dynamics that occur in a group context (eg. momentum, energy, inspiration, motivation, relationships) and the fact that you're getting 90 minutes a week (of strategic training) as opposed to a typical 30 minute private lesson (for not a lot more money). If you want to learn how to play a specific song - book a tutorial, but if you want to learn how to be a competent and confident musician, take our Guitar Labs and stick with it. There are no short cuts, but there are more efficient proven ways to progress.
5) Can I come and sit in on a session?
You are welcome to come and see our studio and meet the instructors (best way to do this is to set up a consultation) but we have a PARTICIPANT ONLY policy during the lab sessions. The main reason we limit the labs to students only, is that it is very important to us that our students and teachers are comfortable and at ease during the sessions. People who are not enrolled can be a distraction and can make students feel more self-conscious when they are playing and trying new things. We appreciate people respecting that by not coming in and watching during the sessions. This also helps the Instructor to remain focused. If you have a friend or family member who is taking a lab, you can come and see their final performance at the end of each quarter! You will be amazed by how good they sound! We also schedule an Openhouse Showcase 4 times a year.
6) This sounds great. What do I do now?
Once you've figured out which lab is for you, enroll as soon as possible to secure your place. At any time you can call us (805 542-9528) or email us with any questions, and you can enroll in person or online. Remember, we've taught about 1000 group guitar labs here and we have really invested in our approach, our facility and curriculum. These labs are a result of years of experience, education and hard work. They are not 'thrown together' guitar classes. We've got a really good thing going here, and we invite you to come and join us.
7. What happens if I miss a session of my course? Just like any class, if you miss a session we will get the notes to you and help you keep up, but we can not offer free make up lessons. You CAN book additional tutorials at any time.
8. What happens if I enroll in a course, and it’s just not right for me?
We recommend a consultation before you enroll because it’s best for everyone for you to get in the best Lab for you! But, we will work with you to make sure that you are satisfied. Occasionally we can see that someone is in a lab that is either too hard for them or too easy. In this situation we will move you into a more suitable lab and help you get situated as soon as possible.
9. What happens if I enroll in a course, and I have to drop out for some reason?
Enrolling at MMA is like enrolling in a college class. In the case that you have to drop out of a lab this puts us in a difficult position, because we run labs based on minimum class sizes, and it is likely that we have turned students away for your seat in the lab. Therefore the following pollicies apply:
For FULL refund or credit you must notify us 72 hours PRIOR TO THE FIRST session of your lab. A $10 processing fee will apply. This allows us time to make arrangements for other students.
If you drop out AFTER this point, whatever the reason, there will be no refunds OR credits.