Arrival
Please park along the street, without blocking the mailbox please, or on the right side of the driveway.
Please remove your shoes upon entering the house.
Only bottled water in the studio; no gum, candy, food, or other drinks please.
Lesson Format
Beginning and transfer students take two 30-minute lessons per week to help reinforce foundational skills.
Intermediate and advancing students typically take one 45- or 60-minute lesson per week, allowing for deeper development at their skill level.
Extra lessons are available for dedicated students preparing for competitions or auditions, with a focused approach to performance readiness.
Occasional coaching sessions are available and billed separately from regular lessons.
Group and performance classes will be scheduled based on availability.
Rescheduling (Make-Up) Policy
Lessons can usually be rescheduled if notice is given in advance.
Please note that lessons missed without notice or canceled at the last minute are typically not eligible for rescheduling.
Practicing
Effective practice is essential and will be taught. Learning to practice is a process, much like learning to tie your shoes or use scissors. Explaining how it goes is only the first step, mastering it takes repetition and support.
Younger students benefit from an adult who supervises practice sessions in a loving and supportive manner.
All students need access to a quality instrument for practice.
Performing
Performing is a skill that needs to be developed through guidance and consistent practice. It involves much more than playing with focus and hoping for the best. Many students and parents underestimate the preparation and mental readiness required for a confident, successful performance.
For this reason, all outside performances must be discussed with the teacher in advance to ensure successful preparation.
Music Scores
I typically purchase books—digital or printed—in advance so they’re ready when a student needs them, without waiting on an order. Students reimburse me for the cost of the materials. Shipping and tax is covered by the annual administrative fee.
Photocopying music to avoid purchasing it is illegal and a violation of copyright law.
Discontinuing lessons
Life can bring changes—whether it’s a new schedule, a move, shifting interests, or other family needs—and I completely understand. Clear and timely communication helps make the transition smooth for everyone and allows me to offer the spot to another student.
If you ever need to discontinue lessons, please let me know by email, ideally with at least two weeks’ notice.
Inspiring Quotes
From the very beginning, I teach mastery, rather than perfection. Bruce Berr says, “Newer teachers sometimes assume that because students are at an elementary level, they cannot play their pieces with mastery and artistry – this is not true! This is a matter of confusing standard with level.”