Studio Policy

Lesson Requirements

Students are required to purchase or rent a quality instrument and maintain it at all times. The teacher is happy to help students obtain an instrument if necessary. Students are required to bring all books and learning materials to each lesson. While nails may be painted and decorated, it is imperative that nails are kept short and clean.

Open Door Policy

The teacher maintains an open door policy for all lessons. Parent/guardians and friends are welcome to attend, provided that they do not create unnecessary disruptions during the lesson. An adult is required for all students who have not entered 4th grade.

Cancellations

Students are required to give 48 hours notice prior to a missed lesson so that the teacher can accommodate schedule changes for herself and other students. Students who miss lessons without proper notice will be required to pay for the teacher’s time. Exceptions will be made on a case by case basis, such as a death in the family or hospitalization.

Please do not attend lessons if you are sick. It is easy for illnesses to spread throughout the studio, from one family to the next. Other students may be immunocompromised or have family members with weak immune systems. If you are unsure, please feel free to wear a mask or ask for a lesson via Zoom.

Lice outbreaks happen, especially in households with young children. If your family experiences lice, please notify the teacher. Lessons can be held over Zoom in the meantime.

Tardiness

Students are required to be on time. Online students are requested to set up and tune before the lesson begins. In person students may arrive early and unpack while others are finishing their lesson. Students who are tardy will lose that time and be expected to pay for the entire lesson. If the teacher is running late she will make that time up either at the end of the lesson or during a future week.

Discontinuing Lessons

Students who no longer wish to continue lessons will be required to give two weeks notice so that lessons can conclude in a logical place. Students who do not wish to attend the remaining lessons will be asked to pay for those lessons that remain. Students are always welcome to return, and are encouraged to keep in touch.

Payment

Payment for lessons is due at the beginning of each month. The teacher accepts PayPal, Venmo, and personal checks. If your family suddenly finds itself in a hardship, or is unable to pay at the beginning of the month, please do not discontinue lessons without first consulting with the teacher. The education of the student comes first and alternative arrangements may be available. Students who qualify for partial or full scholarships are required to remain in good standing in regards to attendance and practice.

Quality Practice

Good practice is necessary for the enjoyment of the music journey. Good practice requires daily attention, a good warm up, a handy pencil, and all materials ready on the music stand. It means stopping to fix mistakes permanently and mark helpful corrections in the music. Good practice establishes discipline and is evident from one week to the next.

A crucial part of good practice also requires students to take the time to explore their instrument, play around and have fun outside of the lesson material prescribed. This helps to develop auditory skills as well as a better working knowledge of the instrument.

Practice can also include dexterity exercises such as pencil holds and finger taps, as well as listening to recordings and watching performances on Youtube or in person.