Unlike the larger band classes, which are designed to teach fundamental skills to multiple students, private lessons allow each student to receive custom-tailored instruction to develop his or her specific needs. Private music lessons are not required for your child to participate in band, but are highly encouraged.  Most advanced students do study privately.  Lessons are intended to be enrichment and will actually become the primary focus of each student’s practice and development.  The earlier students start lessons, the more benefit gained from taking lessons.  Private lessons are not a part of your child’s grade.

Private lessons teachers maintain their own schedules and handle their own payments.  Lessons are scheduled according to your child's and the instuctor's availability.  Mr. Sawyer maintains a current list of qualified lessons teachers in the area. Lesson teachers can meet students after school in the Band Room practice spaces from 4-5pm on Mondays and Wednesdays if need be. 

Western High School has a tradition of partnering with Indian Ridge Middle School and sends excellent student-teachers over every year starting in December. These students are vetted by Mr. Tracie, the band director at Western, and earn service hours providing band tutoring to the Indian Ridge band students. Wildcat Tutors are available Mondays and Wednesdays after school from 4-5pm. No sign up is necessary, students who wish to have a band tutor report to the Band Room after school and coordinate with the the tutors there. Students participating in Wildcat Band Tutoring will need their own transportation home after 5pm.