Instructor Alayna Cate answers a few questions about herself and lessons at Music Lessons of Indiana
Tell us about your musical development. When did you begin certain instruments and what prompted you to choose certain instruments to learn?
I was 4 years old when I started taking piano lessons. I actually got into music because of my older brother. I wanted to do everything like him, so once he started piano, I had to get started as well. From there, I fell in love then did all kinds of musical activities growing up. In middle school I joined the band and played clarinet. In high school, I played clarinet in the concert and marching bands, and then decided to go into college for music education. During my college years I really wanted to learn more instruments, so I joined several ensembles and played percussion, brass and woodwinds. Now I just try it all!
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
New students are lots of fun. I like to get to know them right away and discuss why they want to learn the instrument they chose, and then we jump right in. I also like to set goals so that teacher and student are always on the same page.
What education or training do you have?
I have my bachelor's in instrumental music education from Middle Tennessee State University. I also have public teaching experience from Indianapolis Public Schools and informal teaching experience from many years of private lessons and marching band activities in Tennessee, North Carolina, Ohio, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and Texas.
Are there any instruments that you would like to learn in the future?
Actually, I have always wanted to learn how to play the harp. It is such a beautiful and angelic instrument. Very prestigious in my opinion and just awing.
When and how did you make your decision to become a music teacher?
I was a sophomore in high school when I decided teaching music was for me. People always say, "If you love your job, you'll never work a day in your life." It's true!
What are some tips or advice you’d give to people who would like to learn a musical instrument?
Go for it! It's never too late to learn a new instrument. Music is also such a beneficial aspect of human life and development, so whether you're 3 or 93, learning an instrument can do no harm!
What about tips for beginning students? How long or how often should a new student practice?
I always advise at least 10 minutes every day, depending on a student's age. You know, younger students have shorter attention spans and can only handle so much at a time. Older or adult students can practice as much as they want. The biggest point for me to make here is that EVERY DAY you should invest some time in your instrument. It's like working out, or dieting. You can't just choose one or two days a week to focus on it and see results. It has to be daily.
Music Lessons of Indianapolis
5703 S. East Street,
Indianapolis Indiana 46227
317-719-7020
