Shelley Collins, flutist
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Yes, I teach private lessons! 
Picture
Two of my former high school students, Sayre Weast & Erin Oakes, after a DSU Honor Band concert.
In addition to teaching college flute students at Delta State University, I also enjoy teaching private students of all ages and abilities.I have a limited number of openings and am always interested in meeting dedicated, hardworking, and enthusiastic students. If you are interested in learning more about private instruction, please browse this page and my Studio Policies and then give me a call. 
  • My teaching style is positive and encouraging -- I give very specific and honest feedback. My goal is that students will eventually gain the skills needed to become independent musicians, no matter what their career paths may be.  
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  • Students are expected to be prepared for their lessons, to be open to suggestions, and to be willing to participate in studio activities, including group classes and recitals.
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  • Although students are encouraged to participate in music festivals, honor bands, and other flute activities, I want to stress that I am NOT interested in "cutthroat," competitive students. Students are expected to work hard--and to be supportive and encouraging to each other.
PictureThree of my former students: Jonathan Gore, Simon Shultheis, and Zachary Kellogg, at the Seattle Flute Society Young Members Recital, ca. 2005 or 2006.
FAQs:
Is a university professor is an appropriate teacher for a my young child? 
  • Yes! Before moving to Mississippi, I had a flourishing studio of private flute students in addition to my college students. I still make time for dedicated pre-college students. I love teaching flute--from the very first note to further progress as musicians. I've taught all ages, from second grade to age 83. (And...I'm the mother of an energetic young boy!)
I'm considering majoring in music at DSU. May I take a lesson to see what your teaching style is like? 
  • Absolutely! Come visit. Sit in during Flute Ensemble. Try out your Lions Band audition piece. Get feedback. And if you're a junior or senior, you're welcome to a short lesson for free. More info here.
My third grader wants lessons. Is she too small?
  • For my youngest beginners, The Fife Program allows children to play successfully with fun songs before transitioning to the flute. There are also flutes with "U" curves for ease of playing. 
Can I afford lessons?
  • I try to price lessons reasonably for our hardworking Mississippi families. Additionally, some of my college students, under my supervision, teach private lessons at a lower price. Please contact me and we'll see what's best for you. 
Do you offer group classes? 
  • Private students of similar abilities and ages meet together occasionally for group lessons and ensemble participation.
My busy child is in many activities. How about lessons every other week? 
  • I'm happy to work with adult or out-of-town students on an irregular basis, but for students up through 18, I do not offer twice-monthly lessons. Students need consistent instruction and regular practice in order to achieve success. It is far better to take a 30 minute lesson each week than to take a 60 minute lesson twice each month.
Do you teach jazz?
  • My area of speciality is in teaching "classical flute," but I can recommend a great teacher. 
What else? 
  • I'm also available for clinics, masterclasses, and chamber music and/or flute choir coaching. 

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