Lesson Policies
Tuition:
Tuition will depend on teacher, and duration of lesson time (30 or 60 minute lessons). Payment for lessons is billed on a monthly basis, with payment due for the month by the first lesson. Payment is typically billed for 4 weekly lessons per month, however for months that have 5 weeks, the 5th week can be used for a make-up lesson, or charged seperately as an extra lesson. The preffered payment method is Venmo, however Check or Cash is also acceptable.
Absences/Make-Up Lessons:
We understand that life gets busy. If a student needs to miss a lesson, a make-up lesson may be scheduled provided the teacher is given 24-hour notice of absence. Refunds can not be given for absent students. Make-up lessons will depend on the teacher’s availability and are not guaranteed. If a teacher is ever unable to make it to a lesson, a make-up lesson will be scheduled, or payment for that month will be adjusted accordingly.
Sickness:
In the interest of the health of our teachers and other students, we ask that you please do not attend lessons if you are sick. Teachers will do their best to accomodate sickness by rescheduling lessons.
Performance/Recitals:
Part of being a musician is learning how to perform music. Recitals will be scheduled twice a year (spring and winter) to give students the opportunity to perform a song of their choice. Parents will be notified at least one month in advance. Students will also be given opportunities to perform at community events throughout the year which are optional.
Practice Expectations:
Regular practice at home is essential to a student’s progress. Teachers will always encourage students to practice, and help them set weekly practice goals. A good starting goal for practice is 20 minutes per day, 5 days out of the week. Setting aside a specific time each day for practice is a good way to build the habit.
Materials:
Each student is expected to bring their own instrument to their lesson (except piano). Teachers will be able to give recommendations on which size/brand of instrument is right for your student. Teachers will provide most sheet music for their students, however, purchasing a lesson book may also be needed depending on the student’s level. In which case, teachers will provide information on which lesson book will best fit the student.
Withdrawing From Lessons:
If a student needs to withdraw from lessons, notice must be given 7 days before the next billing cycle in order to not be charged for the following month.
FAQ:
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Lessons are typically 30 minutes for beginner/intermediate students. As students advance, their teacher may feel it appropriate to move to hour long lessons.
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Of course, there is really no such thing as too much practice! But a good starting goal for beginners is 20 minutes per day, 5 days out of the week. As students advance, they should plan 30 minutes to an hour of practice each day.
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We understand that life gets busy and students may need to miss lessons from time to time. Make-up lessons can be scheduled as long as the teacher is given 24-hour notice of the absence. This is considered an excused absence. However, if 24-hour notice is not given, it is considered an unexcused absence and the lesson cannot be made up or refunded. The teacher may decide to do a make-up lesson if their schedule allows, but it is not guaranteed.
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We always encourage our students to support local music shops when buying an instrument! For beginners, it is recommended to buy an instrument suited for students with no experience (this may mean smaller sizes for younger students). For intermediate/advanced students, it is recommended to try out many instruments before you find the one that fits you best. If you have questions about which type of instrument best suits your level, please feel free to ask your teacher!
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For most instruments, a good starting age for kids is 8 years old. Kids may start younger depending on attention span and willingness to practice. For adults, anytime is good time to learn to play an instrument!