EIN: 16-0768758
Resources
Your questions, answered.
Quick answers to common questions about enrollment, tuition, lessons, policies, and finding us — all in one place.
Here to Help
Find What You Need
Whether you’re a prospective student exploring your options or a current family navigating a specific policy, this page brings together the information you’re most likely to need. From getting here and paying tuition to understanding what happens when a lesson is canceled, we’ve answered the questions we hear most often. And if your question isn’t covered here, our team is always happy to help.
General FAQs
At what age can one start music and dance lessons at Hochstein?
Each division of Hochstein’s Music & Dance Department has developed minimum age recommendations based primarily on a child’s physical development and ability to attend. For a complete listing of age and grade requirements, see our Individual Instruction page.
Where is Hochstein located?
50 N. Plymouth Ave.
Rochester, NY 14614
From the East, take Exit 14 from I-490W, “Broad St/Plymouth Ave”. Follow signs for “Plymouth Ave” by turning right on Spring Street. Continue 400 ft. to light. Turn left on Plymouth Ave. and cross Main Street. Hochstein is on your right. From the West, take Exit 13 from I-490E, “Inner Loop to Downtown/Plymouth Ave”. As ramp exit splits, take right fork. Turn right on Plymouth Ave. Hochstein is one block south on your left.
Where is the Downtown United Presbyterian Church located?
121 Fitzhugh St. N.
Rochester, NY 14614
A number of Hochstein’s programs meet at the nearby Downtown United Presbyterian Church, which is located on North Fitzhugh Street just beyond the intersection of Church and Fitzhugh in Downtown Rochester.
Where can one park near Hochstein?
Although Hochstein does not have a dedicated parking lot for student use, there are many options nearby.
Tuition FAQs
When are my tuition payments due?
Auto-payment is now our default payment method. Tuition payments are charged automatically to VISA, MasterCard, Discover, and AmEx through ActiveNet. Other special payment intervals and methods may be arranged with the Deans Office. Please call (585) 454-4596 for more information.
Is tuition assistance available? If so, how do I qualify?
Tuition assistance is available to those who qualify based on household income. Those applying for tuition assistance must submit verification of household income and a completed tuition assistance form prior to the registration appointment.
Does Hochstein send tuition payment reminders?
Payment reminders are sent out via ActiveNet. If you don’t already have an online account, fill out our contact form. If you prefer to be mailed a paper statement, please call (585) 454-4596 or e-mail ar@hochstein.org. Late fees will be assessed on any account that is past due.
What forms of payment will Hochstein accept?
Hochstein accepts checks, money orders or VISA, MasterCard, Discover, and AmEx. The School does not accept cash.
When is the Front Office open?
For all payment and billing inquiries, the Hochstein Front Office is open Monday-Thursday from 9:00 am – 6:00 pm, Friday from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, and Saturday 9:00 am – 2:00 pm. Please note these hours are subject to change during the summer session, school breaks, and holidays.
Registration/Enrollment FAQs
Why do I have to make a registration appointment?
New students taking individual music lessons are introduced to Hochstein through an orientation appointment with a member of our Deans’ Office. This is done so that we can explore your goals and expectations while you learn more about the philosophy and programs of the School. Based on this meeting, we can match each student with an appropriate instructor. Returning students taking individual lessons are provided with self-registration information and forms, or can register by telephone appointment. Students enrolling in group lessons, classes, dance and/or ensembles (that do not require an audition) can do so by mail, phone, or fax.
Do we receive report cards?
All students receive progress reports in February and June which are distributed to students by their instructors.
Are there performance opportunities?
Students are encouraged to take advantage of Hochstein’s many performance opportunities, which range from our in-house recitals and concerts to community performances at Eastview Mall, Barnes & Noble, and a variety of museums, senior centers, and nursing homes, among others.
Does Hochstein award degrees?
While Hochstein is not a degree-granting institution, it is one of only 13 Community Schools of the Arts, nationwide, to be accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music. For the serious student, Hochstein offers an Honors Certificate Program. Entrance to this program is gained by audition, and those completing the requirements are well prepared to continue their music education at any of the country’s finest conservatories.
What happens if I cancel or miss a lesson?
You are responsible for the cost of any missed or canceled lessons. Though not required to, your instructor may agree to schedule a make-up lesson.
What happens if my teacher or the school cancels my lesson?
In many cases, your teacher will schedule a make-up lesson at an alternate time. If your teacher is unable to schedule a make-up with you, you will receive full credit for the lesson canceled.
What is the policy regarding withdrawals and refunds?
In order to withdraw from a class or discontinue lessons, the student must notify a member of the Deans Office. In all cases of student withdrawal, registration fees are non-refundable, and tuition fees are calculated based on proximity of withdrawal to the first lesson or class. Hochstein reserves the right to cancel any class due to insufficient enrollment. If this is the case, a full refund, including registration fee, is made. For more information call (585) 454-4596 or view Refunds and Withdrawals on our Registration page.
Tuition Assistance/Need-Based Scholarship Program
The Hochstein community welcomes students of all ages, abilities, proficiency levels, ethnicities, and socio-economic backgrounds in an inclusive and accessible environment that provides artistic opportunities for all. Hochstein’s Tuition Assistance/Need-Based Scholarship Program is just one way that we put the School’s mission and values into action!

