Lesson Policies

Procedures

I conduct free interviews before beginning lessons with each student. This is an excellent way for me to know how best to fit their needs and for them to get a better sense of my teaching style and expectations. Some important topics for all of us should include:

-What is your musical background?

-What are your goals for musicmaking?

-How often can/will the student practice?

Lessons can be 30, 45, or 60 minutes depending on availability and the level and desire of the student.

Materials

Music and other learning materials may be required and should be purchased by the student. I use free resources and sheet music as frequently as I can, but it can be difficult to read or inaccurate For young beginning students, I tend to use Faber's Piano Adventures for lesson books.

To best retain concepts and skills from lessons, a student should be able to reference notes from the lesson.  Students can use either a notebook for writing or have access to the Google Doc where I keep my lesson notes.

Practice

Consistent practicing is essential for developing piano skills. The specific needs for each student will vary depending on age and experience. Together, we will determine what kinds of practicing (and how much) should take place in order to accomplish your musical goals. If a student fails to practice consistently or has too many other commitments to dedicate time to practice, they may be asked to transfer to another studio.

Performances

Playing in front of others is an important part of developing as a musician. It solidifies learning and is easily transferred to increased confidence in other areas (public speaking or sports). I do not require students to participate in recitals or festivals, but I encourage any opportunity (and in the Treasure Valley, there are lots of great ones!).

Cost

The cost for lessons is charged at a rate of $60/hr, billed monthly.

Make-up Lessons

I will refund or make up any lessons missed if I cancel, but there are no refunds for cancelled or missed lessons. If you need to miss a lesson because of a scheduling conflict or illness, we can:

1. Have a Zoom/FaceTime lesson at the regular time

2. Record a video of the student playing and I will provide feedback for that week

3. Have a friend or family member substitute for the lesson time.

If you have questions about this policy, see this webpage.

Technology

For online lessons, a few things are required:

• a Zoom account or access to FaceTime

• stable internet connection

• a well-lit keyboard or piano

• camera (or smartphone)

Preferred, but not required:

• external microphone

Using these materials significantly increases the experience for everyone involved, improving the ability to receive feedback. 

For students not taking online lessons regularly, being familiar with how to adapt to an online lesson can be helpful in case of mild sickness/inclement weather.