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Policies

Piano Studio Policy 

(Effective August 2024- August 2025)

Students and  others entering the studio will not be required to wear masks. It will be optional. 

Online Lessons Equipment Basics: 

 

  • Determine what devices you will use to login for online lessons: computer, laptop, i-pad  (I would not recommend using i-phone because of its small size)   A separate device is recommended to be able to see scores and assignments during lessons.
Downloads and equipment:

    RATES:

    • Rates are given at the beginning of first interview for new students
    • Rates are subject to change at the beginning of a semester.
    • Rates may also be negotiable if a student qualifies to enroll in the music link foundation. (visit www.musiclinkfoundation.org for more information)
    • Tuition is due no later than after the second lesson from the time students begin lessons for each semester. Installment payment plan option is offered.
    • links to Books, materials, evaluation, audition, competition, festival, non-studio recitals, master classes, etc. fees for you to purchase will be provided as needed
    • Late payments or returned checks will subject to a $25.00 fee.
    • Tuition will be based on the number of lessons given per semester.

    DISCOUNT INCENTIVES:

    • 10% discount off tution for each referral given or sibling enrolled.
    • 10% off summer tuition.
    • 10% off one lesson for every concert or music festival a student attends.
    • 100% off one lesson for every student who receives the Music Excellence Award which is given each semester.
    • 100% off one lesson for every student who graduates a level.

    CANCELLATIONS:

    • 72 hour notice is required. No reschedules or make up lessons are given for absences without 72 hour notice. Cancellations with sufficient 72 hour notice can be rescheduled at the teacher’s discretion. If less than 72 hours, make up would  be at the teacher's discretion, and there will be no obligation if teacher's time is limited.  Students may also have an option to switch to on-lessons during times of minor illnesses in cases where a 72 hour notice was not possible
    • A lesson cancelled by the teacher will either be rescheduled or credited to the student’s next lesson payment.
    • Tardiness from students will run the risk of shortening the length of their lesson time. Giving extra time for make ups will be at the discretion of the teacher.
    • Two weeks notice is required for complete termination of lessons

    ATTENDANCE AND MAKE-UP LESSONS

    • All students are expected to be prepared and attend their lessons on time, meaning, equipment should be all set up and ready, and materials ready on hand.  
    • Theory Group Classes are optional to sign up;  however, they are mandatory for students preparing for Certificate of Merit Piano Exams.   No make up for Theory Group classes would be given unless proper notice is given.  This too would be at my discretion.  
    • In cases of illness: make ups or rescheduling would be at my discretion and can be made up through online lessons. 
    • Parents/guardians are requested to be present for and actively observe all lessons, performing workshops, and all studio recitals, unless previous discussions has resulted in other arrangements being made. The key to a child’s musical success is parental involvement and the priority the family places on music in the home environment. However, only students are requested to be presented during the rehearsals scheduled close to the studio recitals. Parents can join our bi- annual party after students have finished the play-through rehearsals.

      REGISTRATION FEE:

      • A $100.00 registration fee is required at the beginning of each Fall and Spring semester. This will include copying and purchasing expenses of supplemental materials and the use of the recital facility for each semester. Fee is waived for summer registration.

      THEORY GROUP CLASSES: Now returning in person!  Zoom access offered if you cannot come in person provided with 1 week notice.   

      Theory & Playing classes are one hour each and are usually scheduled monthly according to the current caledar.  A Dress Rehearsal is also scheduled a week before recital day. Classes are broken into leveled groups.

      They are designed to help reinforce students’ music reading skills as well as preparation of Certificate of Merit Evaluations, Suzuki Graduations, recital performances, and Music Guild Auditions. Additionally, students have the opportunity to perform pieces or technical studies from their current repertoire. Because time in private lessons are limited, it is highly recommended for students to be involved. Through group games and social support, these classes have been found to help students develop healthy relationships, and support providing them with a sense of community in our studio which is vital for student success. A mock CM will be provided end of February for CM Students. Students who intend to prepare for CM are required to attend all Theory Classes and dress rehearsals. For other students not enrolled in CM, although they not required to enroll, are invited and encouraged to participate.

      The theory class fees include the use of circulating studio music theory games, test-preparation materials, and photocopying expenses for practice theory tests and review worksheets. Theory & Playing Class Fees do not include the cost of CM Theory Workbooks. Parents will be expected to purchase them. Please see calendar chart for the preliminary Theory & Playing Class schedule. 

      Lesson Length and Practice Schedule

      Lesson lengths are determined as follows (Certificate of Merit participants are expected to commit to a little more.)

      Level Lesson Length:

      Pre-school, Pre-Preparatory…………………………………………………30 min/week

      Preparatory, 1, 2 ………………………………………………………………….30 min /week

      3, 4, 5 ……………………………………………………………………………………..45 min /week

      6, 7, 8 ……………………………………………………………………………………….60 min/week

      9, Advanced, Advanced Panel ……………………………………………60-90 min/week

      Longer lessons and/or more frequent lessons are recommended for:

      1. Students who want extra help with theory, add 15 minutes to regular lesson length.
      2. Students who are playing at a higher level to prepare for C/M level, add 15-30 minutes to regular lesson length.

      Required minimum practice schedule (written theory assignments not included):

      Practice Expectation:

      Levels:

      Preschool, Pre-Preparatory……………….20 min./day; 6-7 days/week (ages-3-5)

      Preparatory, 1 ……………………..30 min./day; .6-7 days/week (ages 6 and above)

      2, 3, 4 ……………………………………………………………………45 min./day; 6-7 days/week

      5, 6, 7……………………………………………………………….60 min./day;6-7 days/week

      8, 9 ………………………………………………………………..75 min./day;6-7 days/week

      Advanced, Advanced Panel …………………………………90 min./day; 6-7 days/week

      Longer practice sessions are recommended for students who are pursuing more advanced study. Progress is directly related to quality practice time. Motivated younger students should take advantage of their less demanding school schedule to build technical skills, repertoire, and musicianship before the rigors of high school.

      CERTIFICATE OF MERIT

      Students in this program will have the following benefits. Based on a systematic and comprehensive plan to develop performance skill, technique, ear-training, sight-reading, and understanding of theory, the Certificate of Merit exams sponsored by the Music Teachers’ Association of California offers students the opportunity to meet certain criteria of theory, sight-reading, ear training, and performance for each level. They will have opportunities to be evaluated by other professional teachers, and be recognized performing in honor and annual convention recitals. This program is meant to encourage students to strive for musical excellence, and gives them opportunities to share their music with others statewide. Students level 2 and above are highly recommended to take this evaluation.

      RCM Exams Preparations are also provided if requested.

      PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT, SUZUKI STYLE

      • Be aware of your child’s weekly assignments by observing lessons, taking notes, and reading their weekly lesson notebook.
      • Create a musical home environment for your child, which involves making sure they listen to necessary recordings on a regular basis, and encourage your child with practice to the best of your ability.
      • Provide your child a regular time, a comfortable place to practice, and a well maintained piano in which to practice without distractions.
      • Encourage and be supportive as learning music becomes an important part of your child’s life.
      • Practice times: For beginners, a minimum of 20 to 30 minutes of daily practice is required. For intermediate and advanced. a minimum of 60 minutes of daily practice is required.
      • For those with older children who cannot be present during the lessons, it’s alright. Please stay informed of your child’s progress by checking on their weekly assignments. If you would like, please feel free to pick up your child a few minutes before the end of lessons which would allow us to talk and discuss your child’s progress in person.

      The study of music is rewarding and enjoyable, but it is also hard work! It is my sincere desire that with my teaching and your support, we will be able to form an effective team for your child.

      New: Parents are currently expected to maintain communications via email or chat box in in Tonara and monitor their child's weekly assignments posted on Tonara. This is the main platform used for students to receive and submit assignments and important means of communication. 

      Parents and students who commit to enrollment of P3 Piano Studio are expected to have read, abide, and agreed to the terms of the music instruction policy and parent expectations unless discussed with me otherwise.