Studio Policy

Studio policies are necessary in explaining the expectations of the student and the exchange of my services. Please read the following carefully and if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to email me.

I am a traveling teacher based in Mapleton, Utah. I can most flexibly teach from as south as Spanish Fork to as north as Orem. Farther beyond these cities may require more conversation.

I provide the option of a trial lesson to see if the student and I would work well together.

Finances

I will not teach the lesson until I have received the monthly payment before or at the beginning of the first lesson of the month. The payment method preferred is Venmo or check. Every monthly payment will cost 4 lessons, but you will get a lesson every week.
- 30 Minute lessons $27.50 x 4 = $110 per month
- 45 Minute Lessons $37.50 x 4 = $150 per month
- 60 Minute Lessons $50 x 4 = $200 per month
- There is a travel fee per family added to the tuition
  - 0$ if the distance is within 3 miles of my home
  - 5$ if the distance is 3-5 miles from my home
  - 10$ if the distance exceeds 5 miles from my home
I require a 24-hour notice to request a rescheduling (1 per month)
- If the request falls in less than 24-hour notice from the parent/student, I am NOT obligated to reschedule
- If I miss a lesson, I AM obligated to reschedule it
Sometimes I may need to cancel a week of lessons, you will be notified the month prior and I will charge the affected month's tuition appropriately
If a student is unprepared for their lesson for three consecutive lessons, we may need to discuss to evaluate our agreement.
There will be an occasional group piano class where we will experiment with theory and aural skills, play current projects for each other, and share compositions.

My Expectations

I require that the piano that the student has a tuned and properly working piano (no broken strings or hammers) and that the piano bench is of comfortable height for the student (adjustable bench, pillows, or books to accommodate the student's height)
If the student is younger than 8 years old, I require that at least one parent remain in the lesson to know best how to assist the student in their practicing throughout the week
I will not teach the lesson if a parent is not in the house, and no refund if this circumstance occurs
A metronome, whether as a device or app on the phone, is required
I require a willingness to purchase sheet music books that I consider specifically for the student. However, I am a big advocate of using free music in the public domain
Consistent practicing is required, I usually give specific ranges of quantity depending on the student
I expect the student to practice good hygiene and exhibit good manners

Notable Differences in my Teaching

I do not typically use method books, but if the student has already been using one or if a student may do well with it, I will re-evaluate. In place of method books, I prefer to use Bartok's Mikrokosmos.

Note-name flashcards (but not limited to) are essential for the absolute beginner or those with weaker fundamentals. Daily practice of recognizing notes on the keys and staff is critical to the early development and retention of learning music.

It is foundationally beneficial for students to practice composition from the very beginning. It assesses their ability to write and recognize correct notes, intervals, rhythm, and harmony. It also allows them an outlet to explore creativity.

Recitals
- I plan on having two recitals in a year.
  - The first recital will take place near the end of the Spring Semester
  - The second recital will take place near the end of the Fall Semester
    - These dates are subject to change and will depend on the availability of students and parents within the studio
- Students are expected to perform at least two pieces for each recital from memory
- The themes for these recitals vary, and duets may be part of both