The goal of this studio is to instill a love and appreciation for music in each student, developing piano technique and skills and musical knowledge that allows each student to recognize the rewards of practice and time management.  Students will learn to express themselves artistically, developing their ability to participate comfortably and proficiently in music-making and performance. These skills translate to all areas of school and work and play.  

Practice

It is the parents’ responsibility to see that their child practices.  There is a direct relationship between regular practice and student success.  Parents should establish a regular practice routine that is free from distractions and give plenty of positive reinforcement for and during the practice session.  When possible, parents are encouraged to help their child practice, or sit in on practice sessions, especially for younger and/or beginning students.  For younger students, several shorter practice sessions are encouraged, again with lots of help from parents.  For older ones, daily practice of the amount of their lesson is recommended (ie. 30 minute lesson = 30 minutes daily practice, at least five times per week.)   For those taking part in competitions at an advanced level, practice of 90 minutes minimum should be the goal. Parental involvement cannot be underestimated in nurturing a positive musical environment.   Practice sessions should include playing of assigned pieces, review of older pieces, technique, theory, composition and listening to recordings of their current and other pieces, as assigned by the teacher. Students who are not practicing sufficiently will need to schedule a meeting to reevaluate if lessons should continue.

Group Performance Classes & Recitals

In addition to private lessons,  group piano classes and recitals are offered during the session to develop performance practice and theory skills—plus they are a lot of fun!  Students are expected to attend and participate as part of the curriculum.

The group class is a time for students to gather together for performance and listening opportunities.  Each student will choose with the teacher one or more pieces to perform for the group.  We will also learn about music history, composers, and play music theory games which reinforce musical concepts covered in lessons.  For these group lessons, the students may be separated into groups by age and/or level.  The class is 45-90 minutes long and will take place in lieu of the weekly lesson. 

Lesson Preparation and Missed Lessons

It is the student’s responsibility to come to the lesson each week and on time.  All music and materials should be brought to each lesson.  The student should come to the lessons ready to learn. 

Students must make every effort to be at and on time for each lesson.   Lessons are rescheduled only if 24-hour advance notice has been given and if time permits in the teacher’s schedule.  Make-up lessons will be given only if there is room in the instructor’s schedule, and these may take place as in-person, online, or asynchronously.  Lessons missed due to forgetfulness or lack of preparation will not be rescheduled.  Please remember that the weekly lesson time is the student’s personal and financial responsibility, reserved by the teacher for that student only.  If the student misses a rescheduled lesson for any reason, it will not be rescheduled again, and no refund will be given. Lessons missed by the teacher due to illness or scheduling conflict will always be rescheduled. 

Please note:  because make-up lessons are available, there is no reduction in tuition for missed lessons. 

Conferences

Communication between instructor and students and/or parents is essential to help with student progress.  Students and parents are encouraged to email or call any time—see About for contact information.

Session Schedule and Tuition

Tuition is to be paid in advance, quarterly or monthly. There will be a late fee for payments more than 14 days overdue.