Studio Policies

My goal is to create a studio environment where students can grow in musicianship, confidence, character, and a lifelong love of music. These policies are designed to support consistency, encourage purposeful practice, and help each student make meaningful progress.

Commitment to Learning

Regular attendance and consistent practice are important parts of musical growth. Learning an instrument takes patience and perseverance, and I encourage students to approach their lessons with attentiveness, diligence, and a willingness to grow.

  • While consistent, well-attended lessons provide important guidance, the majority of a student’s musical growth takes place through regular practice at home. Lessons will include instruction not only in what to practice, but in how to practice thoughtfully and effectively.

    Purposeful practice helps students develop technique, coordination, musical understanding, problem-solving skills, focus, and self-discipline. Just as importantly, it allows students to experience the joy and satisfaction that comes from working toward a goal and learning to play beautiful music with confidence.

    For young students, I encourage short, consistent practice sessions that are appropriate for their age and stage of development. I understand that young children often need a parent’s help and encouragement to establish a regular practice routine. This is not only a natural part of beginning music lessons, but can be a wonderful opportunity for parents and children to work toward something together, celebrate progress, and cultivate habits of patience, diligence, and perseverance.

    My goal is not simply to increase practice time, but to help students gradually develop the ability to practice with greater independence and purpose as they grow.

  • Regular attendance is important for consistent musical growth. If a student needs to miss a lesson, please let me know as soon as possible by email, text, or phone.

    When a student is unable to attend in person, I may offer one of the following options when appropriate:

    • Online lesson: If the student is well enough to participate, we may meet by Zoom at the regularly scheduled time.

    • Video feedback: Students may submit a recording of their playing for written or recorded feedback and a practice assignment.

    • Make-up lesson: One make-up lesson is offered per student per academic year. Additional make-ups may be considered for cultural or religious observances or significant extenuating circumstances.

    • Student swap: Families may inquire about arranging a lesson swap with another student, although this is subject to availability.

    Make-up lessons are scheduled during designated make-up periods and are not guaranteed to occur at the student’s regular lesson time.

    If a student is experiencing a contagious illness, please do not attend an in-person lesson. If the student feels well enough to participate, an online lesson may be arranged.

    If I need to cancel a lesson due to illness or an unforeseen circumstance, I will notify the family as soon as possible and provide an appropriate make-up option or credit.

  • The safety of students and families is my first priority. When severe weather makes travel unsafe, I may transition lessons to an online format or reschedule them.

    Families will be notified as soon as possible of any weather-related changes. Online lessons will follow the student’s regular lesson time whenever possible.

    For online lessons, students should have their instrument, music, assignment materials, and a pencil ready, with the device positioned so that I can clearly see the student and piano.

  • Performance is a valuable part of musical education, giving students the opportunity to share their work, develop confidence, and experience the satisfaction of preparing something well.

    Throughout the year, students may have opportunities to participate in:

    • Studio recitals in a warm, informal, salon-style setting

    • Community performances and outreach opportunities

    • Festivals and non-competitive events

    • Competitions, for students who are interested and developmentally ready

    • Music examinations and assessments, when appropriate for the student’s age and level

    Participation in festivals, competitions, and examinations will always be discussed beforehand to ensure that the opportunity is appropriate for the individual student. Any associated participation fees are the responsibility of the family.

  • Students should have access to:

    • A well-maintained piano or 88-key weighted digital piano or at least a lever harp if taking harp lessons

    • Assigned repertoire and method books

    • A three-ring binder for music and assignments

    • An assignment book

    • A metronome or app

    • Pencils/pens

    I am happy to provide recommendations for families purchasing or renting an instrument and can offer referrals for qualified piano technicians and movers.

  • When I assign new repertoire or a method book, families are responsible for purchasing the required materials. Whenever possible, I will provide guidance on where to obtain music affordably.

    Music in the public domain may often be accessed legally and free of charge through resources such as IMSLP.

  • Monthly tuition is due on the 1st of each month. Tuition reserves the student’s weekly lesson time and covers not only lesson instruction, but also lesson preparation, repertoire selection, practice planning, communication, and the other work that goes into supporting each student’s musical development.

    An electronic invoice will be provided each month, and payment confirmations will be reflected on the invoice for your records. Accepted payment methods include Venmo, check, or cash.

  • amilies wishing to discontinue lessons should provide 30 days’ written notice. Tuition remains due during the 30-day notice period.

    I reserve the right to make reasonable schedule adjustments as needed and to discontinue lessons when necessary. Any borrowed studio materials should be returned at the conclusion of study.

    My hope is that students and families will view lessons not simply as a weekly commitment, but as an investment in musical growth, character, and a lifelong appreciation for beauty.