Further Details

Beginners New beginner students start with a basic foundational series of lesson books. Each book progresses a student through another phase of learning how to read music, understand the theory behind music and how to play the piano. In addition, special music such as classical, jazz and popular songs, are interspersed for fun and added variety. Introducing new music assists the teacher in learning more about the student's musical passions for future enhancement and their personal enjoyment. Transfers Typically it seems important to simply continue with the same lesson books from former teachers. It is then determined what additional music, theory, exercise, and sight-reading materials should be added to further a student's progression. Adults The process for beginners and transfers also applies to adults. In addition, adults can have more input into the pace of lessons as well as types of music to be played. Adults are not required to participate in performance classes or recitals unless they desire. We encourage everyone to share music by playing their "special" pieces with family and friends as that can be very rewarding. Performances Twice per year a performance/rehearsal class and recital is held at an appropriate location. All students are required to participate except first-year beginners and adults, as they would have a choice. New beginners are required to attend the performance/rehearsal class so they become familiar and comfortable with the process.

There are numerous reasons why one would want to play the piano or sing. Once the determination is made to take lessons, then finding the special teacher is a key element. Through our working together, we can outline the goals and objectives to be accomplished through weekly lessons. Each student has special gifts, talents, skills, and abilities to be enlightened, enhanced, excelled and expanded. Lesson plans are designed to bring out the best in each student. Personal relationships are built to help a student feel comfortable, feel free to express themselves through their music lessons, as well as asking questions and expressing concerns throughout the lessons. Lesson Content Receive lesson materials and weekly assignments ​Learn to read and play various types of music. ​Learn practice techniques ​Learn theory and how to apply to music ​Learn how to perform in front of others ​Receive coaching for individual musical goals Lesson Results Able to apply music theory and sight-reading skills to your instrument ​Play or sing a variety of music pieces and share with others Gain new confidence, skills, and abilities ​Ability to progress at your own rate ​Transfer new skills to other forms of music Gain a lifetime of musical enjoyment

Lesson Availability Weekly private music lessons for 30, 45, or 60 minutes. The fees may vary. It depends on the frequency of classes per week. Payment for the month is due to the first lesson of each month, or before each lesson. Checks, cash or PayPal are acceptable. Cost of Music Typically the student's music is determined by the teacher. The student's obligation to purchase the materials on time. If the teacher purchase the materials for a student. The reimbursement is due to the first lesson of the following month or earlier, if possible. Lesson Duration As a courtesy to others and to ensure the full-allotted time is available for each lesson, arrival for lessons should be at or just before the exact time scheduled. In order that each student remains on schedule, lessons will end on time regardless of the start time. Missed Lessons When possible lessons can be rescheduled to a more appropriate time during that week. If 24 or more hours of advance notice is received, a missed lesson is not charged. If you cannot give 24 or more hours' notice, the lesson will be charged.

Practice Duration ​The initial duration of practice per student varies depending on many factors. The initially recommended length of time for practice will be discussed between students, parents, and teachers. It might be determined, for example, that a 5-year-old needs to practice 10 - 15 minutes, while a young beginner might need to spend 20 minutes practicing. As the student progresses, the practice time should expand to 30-45 minutes per day for 5 to 6 days per week. When the student is preparing for a recital, more practice time might be needed. Don't forget though, in addition to practice, simply playing favorite songs at the piano is fun. It's not all work and no play!!

Expectations ​​Student: Students are to practice each week in preparation for their lessons. Read lesson notes to remember what and how to practice each piece. Complete any required homework for lesson time. You are learning about music, theory, and how to play the piano. There is a lot to learn. Bring all lessons and current workbooks to the studio and any others suggested by the teacher. It helps to have a special music bag to carry materials. Participate in performance class/rehearsals and recitals where required. Be prepared to the best of your ability. Memorize when possible. Keep up communication with a teacher with regards to needs, expectations, necessary lesson adjustments or any other concerns. Parents: ​Encourage and help the student establish a good practice time per agreement: i.e. 30 minutes per day for 5 days per week. Help support students that need assistance with homework, especially young beginners. ​Have students arrive at lessons on a timely basis. Keep up communication with a teacher with regards to needs, expectations, necessary lesson adjustments or any other concerns.

Two recitals are held each year. Adults are not required to participate in recitals. All other students are required to perform. The only exception is for new students, who have a choice to perform during their first recital period. Two weeks prior to the recital each student will participate in a performance/rehearsal class to be held at the recital location. New students are required to attend this session whether performing or not. This allows them to become familiar with the recital environment and performance expectations. This group class is in addition free lesson of their individual lesson for that week. The dates and times of the performance classes and recitals will be announced several weeks in advance by a separate notice. This will typically be by email. Recitals and rehearsals are held at an offsite location to be announced at the time. Performance classes are for students. However, the family can attend, if desired. Recitals are for family and friends you wish to invite. ​

Holiday Lessons There will not be lessons during the following holidays: Memorial Day 4th of July Labor Day Thanksgiving Day Christmas and New Year's Break Lessons will be held on all other holidays and school closings unless otherwise notified. Summer Lessons The skills and attitude developed in your music ability are truly an educational as well as an entertainment opportunity, building a foundation for success in all aspects of life. As with most successful endeavors, consistency and repetition are fundamental ingredients. For that reason, music lessons are offered and encouraged as a year-round activity. The months of June, July, and August are special vacation times for most students in school. Students are expected to continue lessons throughout the summer. A student must participate for a minimum of eight (8) lessons during these summer months to assure placement for the next fall. The teaching schedule is adjusted during the summer period.