It takes a partnership of three to learn to play the piano successfully, the teacher, the student and the parents. We each have different responsibilities and when we all work together and communicate clearly with each other success is guaranteed.

Teacher Responsibilities
Once I agree to teach a student I am committed to giving them the best that I have to offer. I will be at the appointed time for each student unless I have given notification. I will use my training and skill and access to resources to help each student learn and develop their talents. My role is to instruct, encourage and inspire in an atmosphere that is stimulating and fun. I will offer a balanced program of repertoire, theory, sight reading, ear training and performance opportunities. I will continue to further my own skills by attending music teacher’s conventions, workshops, lessons and performances in professional organizations.

Student Responsibilities
The student agrees to arrive at the scheduled lesson on time and prepared with all the required materials. A commitment to practicing is essential and students in my studio are expected to engage in consistent, daily practicing: a 30 minute lesson equals 30 minutes practicing each day, a 45 minute lesson equals 45 minutes practicing each day and an hour lesson equals one hour of practicing each day. When you agree to study piano with me you are signing up for a year’s study.

Parent Responsibilities
Providing structure by helping your student establish a set practice time that is honored and protected is one of the most important responsibilities of parents. Do not overbook yours or your student’s schedule. Make sure the piano is well maintained and tuned and is in an area free of interruptions and distractions. Be financially responsible and pay on time. Check in on the practicing asking questions such as, “What are you working on in this piece?”, or “What scale are you practicing this week?”, or “That part is sounding better. I can hear a difference.” Younger children may need you to actually be with them while they practice to help establish good practice habits.

Tuition
The year is divided into 3 quarters: Fall Quarter which is from September through December, Winter Quarter which is from January through March, and Spring Quarter which is from April through mid June. Lessons are $67.00 per one hour lesson, $52.00 per 45 minute lesson and $47.00 per 30 minute lesson. Payment for lessons may be made by the quarter or by the month with the payment due by the first lesson of each month. Payments received after the seventh of each month will be assessed a $25 late fee. Lesson contracts are for one year.  When a student is accepted into my studio it is with the understanding that they have agreed to take lessons for one school year- starting in September and continuing through the last scheduled lesson in June.

Cancelled Lessons and Makeup Lessons
There are no refunds for missed lessons and make-ups will be offered only for illness when I have been given a 24 hour notice. Emergencies will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

Group Lessons
Learning to play an instrument like the piano is primarily an activity that one does alone. However, I have learned that combining group lessons with the individual lesson provides the optimum learning environment. The group lesson is a fun environment in which to learn theory and performance skills and to participate in guided listening. The group lesson gives the students a short term goal to have something prepared to play for their peers. The schedule for the quarter will be posted on the Studio Calendar page, which will give the dates and times for the group lessons.