Studio policies
Practice Expectations
Performance Opportunities
Lesson Termination
Pianos and Keyboards- Will Any Instrument Do?
The simple answer is no. I understand buying a piano or good keyboard is a big investment, but it is a necessary one for the student to get the full benefits of piano study. The student’s use of an acoustic piano is definitely best. Though there are some very good weighted action full-size electric keyboards available, it is not the same “feel” as playing an acoustic piano, thus making it harder for the student to adjust during lessons and performances. If you have questions about searching for a good piano (new or used), please don’t hesitate to ask.
- Students are expected to attend all lessons.
- If there is a conflict (i.e., school scheduled activity) or illness, it is the student’s responsibility to notify the teacher. I will try to reschedule if I’m available. If my schedule will not allow a time to reschedule, the student is allowed one makeup lesson per semester.
- If a student must miss a lesson, it is asked that I be notified at least several hours in advance, or the day before if possible. There will be no refunds given for missed lessons.
Practice Expectations
- Students are asked to download the practice app, Tonara. All assignments and practice time expectations will be posted within the app.
- Students are expected to practice the amount of practice time I set in the Tonara app. This is crucial to the student’s improvement and makes the use of lesson time most efficient. *Please note!* There is a difference between “practice” and a “run-through.” Practicing means taking the time to work on difficult passages or measures, working on rhythm away from the piano, etc. A run-through is playing the piece through while noting parts of the piece that need further practice. There should much more practicing that run-throughs in the course of a practice session.
- Parents should read the practice assignments for the week and encourage them to practice. If there are questions about practice assignments, please contact me by e-mail or phone.
- Parents should not hesitate to talk to me about the progress of their student. There will also be times when I will inform you of my feelings about the student’s progress.
Performance Opportunities
- I will hold a studio recital at the end of the year. It is a great opportunity for students to display their learned skills and see the hard work of their peers as well.
- There will be other opportunities for my students to participate in festivals or other events. I highly encourage your child to participate in these events but will never require it.
- There may be additional performance events to be held throughout the year as determined by the teacher.
Lesson Termination
- It is expected that each student will commit to study piano for the entire calendar year. This includes the financial commitment as well. If the student chooses to end their piano studies, a one month notice is required and no tuition refund will be given.
- The teacher may choose to terminate lessons based on the student’s lack of preparedness for lessons, lack of regular attendance, displaying a bad or disrespectful attitude, or non-payment of tuition.
Pianos and Keyboards- Will Any Instrument Do?
The simple answer is no. I understand buying a piano or good keyboard is a big investment, but it is a necessary one for the student to get the full benefits of piano study. The student’s use of an acoustic piano is definitely best. Though there are some very good weighted action full-size electric keyboards available, it is not the same “feel” as playing an acoustic piano, thus making it harder for the student to adjust during lessons and performances. If you have questions about searching for a good piano (new or used), please don’t hesitate to ask.
