Guitar Class Levels
Covington Fine Arts Academy offers three levels of classical guitar instruction to meet students where they are in their musical journey
Beginning Guitar
This ensemble is designed for 6th grade students with little to no experience playing classical guitar. Students will learn foundational skills including:
Proper posture and hand position
Basic note reading
Fundamental technique
Ensemble playing
Beginning Guitar provides a supportive, skills-based environment for new musicians.
Intermediate Guitar
This ensemble is open to students of any grade level who are still developing their fundamental guitar skills and have not yet been accepted into Advanced Guitar. Intermediate Guitar focuses on:
Strengthening note reading
Developing consistent technique
Building musical independence
Some Beginning Guitar students may be promoted to Intermediate during the second semester. Likewise, Intermediate students may be considered for Advanced Guitar mid-year or the following school year.
New to Covington with prior experience?
Contact Mr. Hernandez-Trejo at ernesto.hernandez-trejo@austinisd.org to schedule an audition and determine proper placement.
Advanced Guitar
Advanced Guitar is for the most motivated and skilled classical guitar students at Covington Fine Arts Academy. Students in this ensemble:
Rehearse and perform more advanced and exciting repertoire
Are held to the highest standards of musicianship, focus, and behavior
Are expected to participate in all scheduled and additional performance opportunities throughout the year
This ensemble serves as the "Honor Orchestra" of the guitar program.
Small Guitar Ensemble (Advanced Guitar Only)
The Small Guitar Ensemble is a student-led, audition-based opportunity for the most committed and advanced guitar students at Covington.
These ensembles offer students a chance to:
Perform in small chamber-style groups such as duos, trios, or quartets
Explore more challenging repertoire in a collaborative setting
Take greater ownership of rehearsal preparation and musical interpretation
Represent the Covington Strings program at community events, concerts, and special performances
Multiple Small Guitar Ensembles may be formed throughout the year based on student interest, instrumentation, and available opportunities.
Small Guitar Ensembles:
Rehearse during class and once a week after school
Are led by one 7th grade and one 8th grade student, selected to audition, organize rehearsals, and coordinate performances with Mr. Hernandez-Trejo
Members of the Small Guitar Ensemble are considered ambassadors of the Covington Fine Arts Academy, setting the standard for musical excellence, leadership, and professionalism.
Guitar Class Supply Information
All students must have an instrument and the following supplies.
Instrument Requirement: Classical Guitar with Nylon Strings
All guitar students are strongly encouraged to purchase their own classical guitar. Classical guitars differ from steel-string guitars in several ways:
3 nylon strings and 3 metal-wound strings
Wider neck and backward-facing tuning pegs
Decorative rosette around the sound hole
Click here to watch an informative video on the difference between classical and acoustic guitars.
Finding a quality instrument is essential for beginners. If cost is a concern, please reach out to Mr. Hernandez-Trejo to discuss options.
Recommended Local Music Stores:
Westbank String Shop
6301 Menchaca Rd
(512) 326-4898
www.westbankstringshop.com
Strait Music
3201 Bee Caves Rd, Suite 140, Austin, TX 78746
(512) 476-6927 www.straitmusic.com
Please consult Mr. Hernandez-Trejo before purchasing a guitar online. Avoid extremely cheap or discounted instruments—if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Required Classroom Supplies
1.5” or larger black 3-ring binder
Mechanical pencils with erasers (no pens)
Clear sheet protectors (for music and handouts)
Zippered pencil pouch (to keep in binder)
Nail files – long nails or acrylics interfere with proper technique
At-Home Practice Supplies
Guitar footstool
Electronic tuner and metronome
Extra set of nylon classical guitar strings
Microfiber cloth for cleaning the instrument
Portable music stand
Nail clippers (left-hand nails must be kept short)
Nail file or buffer (advanced students will shape right-hand nails for tone)
Required Method Book
The Cornerstone Method for Classical Guitar: Grade 1
By Dr. Simon Powis
Purchase on Amazon
Recommended Supplement:
Classical Guitar for Young People by Dr. Matthew Hinsley
classicalguitarforyoungpeople.com
(Also available at Westbank String Shop)
Optional Donation Items (By Grade Level)
6th Grade: Shelf-Stable Snacks (chips, cereal bars, popcorn, bottled water, trail mix, etc.)
7th Grade: Classroom Decorations (poster board, rugs, paint pens, markers, wall art, etc.)
8th Grade: Hand Sanitizer or Box of Tissues
CMS Strings Wishlist: Click here to view and support – all donations go directly to the guitar program!
Need Help Getting an Instrument?
To support consistent practice and student success, all guitar students will need access to an instrument at home.
If a student does not have their own guitar, they may request to borrow a school-owned instrument for the year. A $30 instrument fee helps cover maintenance and repair costs associated with loaner guitars. Instruments are available on a limited basis and are assigned first-come, first-served.
Whenever possible, we encourage families to purchase a personal instrument for home use.
Need a loaner guitar?
Fill out the Instrument Check-Out Form
If cost is a concern, please don’t hesitate to contact Mr. Hernandez-Trejo. We are committed to making sure that no student is ever excluded due to financial circumstances.
Questions?
Please contact Mr. Ernesto Saul Hernandez-Trejo at:
ernesto.hernandez-trejo@austinisd.org
It’s Mr. H’s job to help you find a quality instrument—don’t hesitate to reach out before purchasing.
Performance Uniform Requirements
In the world of music, performers are expected to present a unified appearance. When everyone in the ensemble is dressed alike, it enhances the group’s professionalism and ensures the focus remains on the music—not individual performers.
As part of the Covington FAA Strings Program, students are expected to wear concert attire for all performances unless otherwise instructed.
Required Concert Attire for Guitar Students
Black dress pants or a black dress
Black collared shirt or the Covington Strings performance shirt
Black dress shoes
Black socks
Skirts must be worn with black leggings or tights
All clothing and shoes must be solid black
Please do not wear:
Sandals, Crocs, shorts, or blue jeans.
If You Need Assistance
If you are unable to obtain any part of the required attire, please speak with Mr. Hernandez-Trejo at least one week before the performance so that accommodations can be made.
No student will be excluded from a performance due to uniform-related financial hardship.
Helpful Reminders
Not sure what to wear? All-black concert attire is always a safe and appropriate choice.
The Covington Strings black performance shirt may be worn in place of a black collared shirt when applicable.
Attendance & Calendar Expectations
Each rehearsal and performance depends on students being present and on time. Consistent attendance is essential to the success of the group. If any unavoidable conflicts arise, students must notify Mr. Hernandez-Trejo as early as possible.
The program calendar outlines important events and required performances for each class. While many key dates are already included, some sectionals and events—especially those specific to certain groups (e.g., Beginning Guitar, Quartet, Advanced Guitar, etc.)—will be added as they are confirmed. The calendar is updated regularly and reflects the most current schedule.
Please review the calendar carefully and bookmark the link or add it to your Google Calendar:
www.cmsstrings.org/calendar
Staying informed is the best way to ensure full participation throughout the year.
Unexcused Absences
If a student misses a required event without prior communication, the absence will be considered unexcused and may result in:
Grade deductions
Loss of performance opportunities
Ineligibility for special events or field trips
Loss of leadership or ensemble roles
Removal from Small Guitar Ensemble or advanced group
Required make-up assignments (written or recorded)
Open, timely communication is essential to the success of the ensemble. Failure to follow these expectations may impact a student’s ability to perform or participate in future events.
Student Contract
As a Covington FAA Guitar member, I will act in accordance with the academic and behavior expectations stated below. These expectations are in place to support my success and the success of others.
Student AND Parent/Guardian are required to review the following sections:
Honor Code, Concert Etiquette, Trip Guidelines, Grading Policy, Discipline Procedures, Social Media Expectations, and Classroom Expectations.
Honor Code / Commitment to Excellence
I am expected to follow the Covington FAA Guitar Honor Code:
Be on time
Be prepared
Be responsible
Be respectful
Be a team player
I will not prevent others from learning. It is my responsibility to help create a focused and supportive learning environment for everyone around me.
I will come to class prepared every day. This means bringing the following:
Myself – I cannot learn if I am not at school.
My instrument – I need to practice every day. I cannot succeed if I fall behind.
My complete folder – with music, book(s), pencil, and paper. I cannot achieve if I don’t have the materials I need.
By joining the classical guitar program, I commit to the following:
Guitar is a year-long course, and students are expected to remain enrolled for the entire school year. Schedule changes may be requested during the first two weeks of school. After that period, any schedule changes will require approval from Mr. Hernandez.
Keeping my grades at 75% or higher in all classes and completing all assignments on time.
Preparing for and doing my best on all tests, including STAAR and benchmark exams.
Coming to school every day, aiming for at least 98% attendance.
Showing self-control, making responsible choices, and being a positive leader in class.
I understand that breaking this commitment may lead to consequences such as detention, exclusion from field trips or performances, referrals, or schedule changes. Most importantly, it will disrupt my learning and the learning of others.
Classroom Expectations
Refusing to meet the following expectations will result in disciplinary procedures:
No chewing gum.
Enter and exit the guitar room quietly.
Remain quiet during rehearsals and follow all directions.
Do not touch or play someone else’s instrument, including the piano.
Keep hands and feet to yourself — no horseplay in the classroom or C-building.
Keep the classroom clean: put away footstools, tuners, music, chairs, and stands.
Concert Etiquette
All performers and audience members are expected to:
Remain silent during performances
Stay seated unless leaving between pieces
Avoid food/drinks in performance areas
Applaud appropriately — no shouting or whistling
Silence all devices
Stay for the entire concert
Poor concert behavior may result in removal from the venue.
Absences / Concert Make-Up
Participation in rehearsals and performances is required. Notify the director in advance of any absences or tardies via email, Remind app, or a written note with date, reason, and parent signature.
Concert Grade Make-Up:
If absent from a required concert, students must perform their pieces for the class using a listening rubric.
Tardies:
Students must be on time. Excessive unexcused tardies (3+) may result in loss of privileges, including field trips and special events.
Guitar is a performance-based activity. Success depends on each student’s commitment to excellence.
Grading Procedures (subject to slight changes)
Formative Grades:
40% – Daily/Weekly Participation (being prepared with materials)
20% – Practice at home and in class (at least 120 minutes per week, 4+ days)
Summative Grades:
20% – Playing/Written Assessments (performances, theory, rhythm, vocabulary)
20% – Rehearsals and Performances
Note: Rehearsals may occur before or after school, and are crucial to performance preparation.
Discipline Procedures
To ensure a positive learning environment, the following consequences will be applied for misbehavior, depending on the severity:
Warning
Phone call home / Reflection assignment
Lunch detention (failure to attend = after-school detention, 1 hour)
Office referral (this may affect field trips and advanced placement)
Social Media and Online Expectations
Covington Fine Arts Strings has a Facebook page, Instagram account, and website (www.CMSstrings.org). Families are encouraged to follow and share.
All members are responsible for appropriate online behavior. Inappropriate posts (language, images, references to drugs/alcohol, threats, etc.) may result in consequences including removal of posts, bans, or dismissal from the program.
Guitar Trip Guidelines
Strings students may attend various events throughout the year. To be eligible:
No outstanding balances or missing forms
Parent permission slip submitted
Must be passing all classes and have good behavior
Must attend all concerts
On trips:
Follow dress codes and instructions
Stay with the group
Respect chaperones and bus rules
No inappropriate behavior (fighting, profanity, etc.)
Bring necessary materials and medication (inform Mr. H in advance)
CutTime
CutTime is a new platform that will allow parents and students to receive important communications via e-mail or text
Payments: CutTime will help parents and students keep track of any fees/payments that are owed. This includes fair share fees, instrument fees, fundraiser payments, and trip costs.
Communication. This new platform will allow parents and students to stay up to date with announcements and events.
Volunteer: Through CutTime, parents will be able to sign up for volunteer opportunities.
Parents/guardians will receive a sign up link at the beginning of the school year. Your CutTime "Magic Link" will be sent to your primary contact phone number. See below for a CutTime tutorial video.
Remind
In addition to CutTime, all students and parents/guardians must have at least one REMIND account.
REMIND is a free, secure messaging tool that Covington Strings uses to send important updates about rehearsals, events, socials, fundraisers, cancellations, and more.
By joining the class on REMIND, you’ll receive messages via text, push notification, or email. Your personal contact information stays private—phone numbers are never shared.
Every student and parent/guardian with a cell phone should join!
Learn more at www.remind.com.
Follow the steps below to join
-
OPTION #1 - EASIEST OPTION!! Join by text message. Enter this number: 81010 (in place of the phone number); With one of these messages (use the address/handle for your child's class)
@cmsborch (beginning orchestra)
@cmssorch (string orchestra)
@cmshorch (honor orchestra)
@cmsporch (pops orchestra)
@cmsbclass (all bass students/parents)
@cmsbguit (beginning guitar)
@cmsiguit (intermediate guitar)
@cmsaguit (advanced guitar)
@sup4covstr (volunteers and adult supporters)
-
OPTION #2 Download the FREE Remind APP! Available for Android devices on Google Play or for iPhones/iPads in the Apple App Store. Enter the class code:
@cmsborch (beginning orchestra)
@cmssorch (string orchestra)
@cmshorch (honor orchestra)
@cmsporch (pops orchestra)
@cmsbclass (all bass students/parents)
@cmsbguit (beginning guitar)
@cmsiguit (intermediate guitar)
@cmsaguit (advanced guitar)
@sup4covstr (volunteers and adult supporters)
-
OPTION #3 Join by Email or Phone! Follow this link to join:
class codes:
@cmsborch (beginning orchestra)
@cmssorch (string orchestra)
@cmshorch (honor orchestra)
@cmsporch (pops orchestra)
@cmsbclass (all bass students/parents)
@cmsbguit (beginning guitar)
@cmsiguit (intermediate guitar)
@cmsaguit (advanced guitar)
@sup4covstr (volunteers and adult supporters)
You may receive messages (up to 140 letters) in English & Spanish.es here
Fees & Payments
Class fees are due by August 30, 2025
All student fees will be paid through the CutTime Portal. You will receive login and payment instructions via a message from CutTime.
Guitar Fair Share Fee – $50/year
All Covington guitar students are required to pay a $50 annual Fair Share Fee through CutTime.
This fee helps sustain the guitar program by covering:
CMS Strings black performance shirt (required for concerts. The black CMS Strings shirt is included with annual Fair Share Fee)
UIL, district, and region registration fees
Solo & ensemble judges
Guest clinicians and masterclasses
Sheet music, method books, and classroom materials
Equipment maintenance
Transportation, snacks, and student incentives
Enrichment opportunities
Instrument Check-Out Fee – $30/year (if needed)
All students must have a guitar at home for daily practice.
Students who do not bring their own instrument may check out a school-owned guitar for the year. A $30 check-out fee helps cover routine maintenance and allows students to take a guitar home (based on availability).
Instruments are limited and must be returned in good condition
The fee does not cover theft or major damage
In the event of loss or irreparable damage, families are responsible for the full replacement cost
Guitars can only be checked out once the fee has been paid or a payment plan has been set up with Mr. H.
If cost is a concern, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here to help.
Need to check out a school guitar?
Complete this form: Drop-off/Pick-up Instrument Form
Merchandise & Booster Club Membership
T-shirts, merch, and Booster Club memberships can be purchased online at:
www.cmsstrings.org/payments
(Venmo & PayPal: @CovingtonStrings)
Cash or Check Payments:
Checks payable to “CSBO”
Drop off in the Booster Lock Box (orchestra room) or give directly to a booster officer
Always include your student’s name and purpose of payment
Financial Assistance & Payment Flexibility
We believe that every student deserves access to music education—regardless of financial circumstances.
If your family is unable to pay the Fair Share or instrument check-out fee, please don’t hesitate to contact Mr. H in person, by email, or by phone. We’re happy to work with you and can offer flexible payment plans, volunteer opportunities, or other arrangements to help meet the requirement.
What matters most is communication. If no effort is made to reach out, students may not be eligible to check out a school-owned instrument and could be reassigned to a different class. However, money will never be the reason a student is excluded from the Covington FAA Strings Program.
Outstanding Balances
Unpaid balances may affect a student’s ability to participate in field trips or extracurricular events.
How to Pay with Cash or Check
Cash (no coins!) and checks must be handed directly to Mr. Hernandez or Mr. Hall.
Checks should be made payable to “CMS Strings”
Include your student’s name and payment purpose in the memo line
All payments are non-refundable
Always ask for a receipt when making a payment to a teacher or booster officer. If you don’t receive a receipt, keep your money until one is provided. For online payments, be sure to save your email confirmation.
Forms & Handbook Agreement
All Covington guitar students and their parent/guardian must complete the Guitar Program Forms & Handbook Agreement at the beginning of the school year.
Before completing the form, please take time to carefully review all information on this page, including fees, required supplies, expectations, and important policies. It is essential that both students and families fully understand the program details before signing the agreement.
This digital form is required for all students and serves several important purposes:
Collects student and parent contact information
Confirms that students and families have reviewed all guitar program information
Serves as a digital signature for required AISD permissions, including:
Bus transportation approval
Media release
Student conduct agreement
Instrument care & responsibility acknowledgment
Submitting this form is mandatory for participation in class activities, field trips, and performances. Please complete it as soon as possible to ensure your student is fully enrolled in the program.