If you and your child would like to become involved in the STELR program, please attend some of our classes, listen to the Suzuki method recordings, and contact our participating teachers to learn about their studios, - their policies, prices and availability.  We recommend observing lessons with potential teachers to choose the best fit for you and your child. Please also call (806)-543-8581 or email us, so we can let you know about upcoming parent classes.  For the Iles Magnet program, please contact Martha Perez.

Parent Education

Parent education classes are held at the beginning of each semester  for parents of students who are new to the STELR program.  These three required classes are designed to familiarize parents with the Suzuki philosophy, to impress upon parents their responsibility for the success of their child, and to expose them to the basic elements of what lies ahead.

Participating Teachers

Each teacher in the STELR program is a member of the Suzuki Association of the Americas, and has received special training in the Suzuki method which has been approved and registered with the SAA.  Beyond the introduction and philosophy course, the training process for each level (book) includes an audition, 15 hours with a master teacher as well as extensive observation of experienced teachers working with children.  Weekly private lessons with these participating teachers are separate from the STELR program.  Scheduling and financial arrangements are solely between the parent and the individual teacher.

Tuition

Semester Tuition for the STELR Program is $100, which includes 8 Group Lessons, 1 solo Recital and 1 Large Concert, plus any additional performances we give.   Tuition is due at the beginning of the Fall and Spring semesters.  Payment plans for the total amount can be made, and sibling discounts are offered.

Instrument Rental and Purchase

Young beginners will learn the initial steps on a box, or pretend violin, so it is not necessary to purchase an instrument immediately.  Teachers prefer to assist you in instrument selection to ensure proper sizing and other preferences when the child is physically and mentally ready for an instrument. Please do not purchase an instrument or let your extremely interested child develop untrained habits on an instrument before they have lessons.  Instruments and other materials are available from several local and nearby dealers.  Each dealer has their own policies regarding rental, rent-to-own plans, trade-up policies, repair availability, and prices.  Please discuss instruments with your teachers before you purchase/rent. 

Magnet Program

The Lubbock Independent School District, in conjunction with STELR, offers free (to the parent) private Suzuki method violin or bass lessons as part of its magnet program.  This opportunity is currently available at Roscoe Wilson and Iles Elementary.  Enrollment in this program is limited.  Families who participate in the Roscoe Wilson LISD magnet program are responsible for providing an instrument and STELR tuition fees.  At this time, Iles magnet program provides financial assistance for instruments, STELR tuition as well as the private lessons.  If you are interested in the Roscoe Wilson program, please fill out the information sheet found in the school office. Often, there is a waiting list, and this ensures your place on it.  If you are interested in the Iles program, please contact Martha Perez at  STELR directly.