Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What classes should I take for my level of ability?
A:  Let’s talk and discuss your experience as a player and your educational background.  Then we will be able to choose the courses best suited for you.  Contact us by email or phone. 

Q: Do I need to be able to read music?
A:  For some classes music reading skills are required, for others no.  Refer to the syllabus for each specific course to find out if reading music is a requirement.

Q: How do I register for SAM?
A:  Go to the registration page and choose the semester you want begin.  Then simply click on the name of the class you are interested in and you will be taken to the shopping cart.  Follow the directions located here.  You can also register by completing the printable registration form located on the registration page and mailing this form along with your tuition payment to SAM.

Q: What materials do I need for class?
A:  Refer to the syllabus for each class to see the specific requirements.

Q: Can you further explain the Stinnett Applied Music Method of teaching?
A:  As described on the About Us page, the essence of the SAM Method© is our performance and practice aspect of each subject taught.  Each musical concept being taught is supported by specific instructions on how to practice and audio play-alongs to work with at home.  Performance and analysis of transcriptions of music by the Masters is in integral part of all appropriate courses.  Developing good practice strategies is also a major component of the SAM Method©. 

Q: What level are the classes at SAM? High school? College? Elementary? Adult Education?
A:  We offer many different levels of classes at SAM.  Levels of difficulty range from typical high school to professional.  Look closely at the syllabus for specifics. All levels of classes are not available all of the time.  We offer classes on a rotating semester basis. You are always welcome to contact us for more detail. 

Q. Are there any prerequisites to attend SAM?
A.  In general, no.  However we are not prepared to accommodate elementary age students.

Q: Do I need to audition?
A:  While a live audition is desirable and will better facility your placement it is not a requirement.

Q. Do the SAM ensembles perform?
A. Yes, we have venues and dates set for all ensembles to perform.

Q. What is the advantage of taking classes at SAM?
A. There are a number of unique advantages to studying at SAM. Our biggest asset is our first-rate professional faculty rooted in the Stinnett Applied Music Method©.  We also offer small class sizes, which leads to more individualized instruction.  In addition, all classes involve using your instrument.

Q. Does SAM offer college credit?
A. Not at this time.