Piano Lessons

Teaching Philosophy
As a teacher, it is my goal to instill in each student a love of learning and of music, to help them develop their talents, and to foster the self-confidence that comes through achievement and self-discipline. My goal is to inspire students to become the very best musicians they can be. Through music theory, ear-training, and sight-reading– in addition to repertoire, technique, and master classes – these goals will successfully be achieved.

It is my conviction that each student is unique and has the potential to reach a considerably high level of pianistic and musical achievement, if given the proper encouragement and instruction. For this reason, I tailor each lesson to meet the student’s individual needs and style of learning, thereby optimizing the amount of growth for each student.

As their teacher, I am honored by the great trust that is being placed in me, and I promise to do everything I can to ensure that each student reaches his great musical potential.

Weekly Lessons
Lessons are a fun and enjoyable opportunity for teacher and student to learn and grow together! My studio is equipped with a grand piano, and I offer 30-,  45-, and 60-minute lessons. While I don’t require a specific amount of practice time, I do expect students to practice daily and to come prepared to lesson each week, with all of their assignments completed.


At every lesson, students are to bring an 8.5”x11” notebook, wherein I write their assignments. Students are expected to write in their notebooks everything that was discussed in lesson immediately after lesson. I ask that parents please be aware of their children’s assignments and practice habits. If questions arise during the week regarding what was assigned in the notebook, please feel free to contact me – I would be more than happy to help.

After a successful audition, the first semester of study is considered a "probationary" semester, to see if the student's learning style and demeanor are compatible with the studio.

I divide the year up into 4 quarters: Fall (Sept-November),Winter (Dec-Feb), Spring (Mar -May), and Summer (June-August). Each quarter consists of 12 lessons. Summer Quarter is the only exception to this, where I arrange with each parent/student in advance how many lessons they would like to receive during that quarter. (Ex. a student may arrange with me to have only 8 lessons during Summer Quarter). We arrange Summer Quarter schedules towards the end of Spring Quarter.


Technique
The first 10 or 15 minutes of each lesson is spent on technique. The student has 3 chances to play their assigned technique perfectly (which is possible).

I always make sure that the students understand exactly how to perform the technique given to them, and I only assign enough technique that could adequately be prepared with 15 minutes or less of daily practice. In my experience, this has proven to be an extremely effective and motivating exercise, and one which will help the students become their very best pianistically!


Lesson Attendance
Tuition offers the student a place and time slot in my studio. Due to my very full schedule, there are no make-up lessons or refunds for student cancellations. As a service to my students, if a student knows he will miss a lesson, he may switch lessons with another student for that week. A list of students’ contact information and lesson times will be given to each parent/student at the beginning of the school year.

If I have to cancel a lesson, I will make up the lesson by either giving extra time in lesson or by scheduling a make-up lesson.

If a student will no longer be taking lessons, I ask to be informed at least 30 days prior.

Master Classes
Master Classes are an invaluable asset to the studio! They are held during the last week of every month in place of their regular weekly lesson. In essence, a master class provides a fun and informal opportunity for each student to perform one piece for each other that they’ve been working on that month.

Students are to bring their notebooks to Master Class, and should plan on staying for the entire Master Class (please don’t arrive late or leave early).
Group Classes are divided by age: Elementary, Jr. High, High School, and Adult.


Performance Opportunities
Studio Recitals will be held at least twice a year, usually including a Christmas concert at an Assisted Living Center. Students are required to perform their recital pieces for family and friends several times during the 3 weeks leading up to the recital.

I actively involve all of my students in local festivals and competitions. While participation in competitions is not a studio requirement, students are strongly encouraged to participate – the rewards far exceed the effort, (whether you win or not)!

I encourage all of my students and their families to attend as many musical/artistic events as possible; this enriches one’s musical perspective and deepens one’s capacity to interpret and enjoy the gift of music.

Parental Relationship
An open communication between parent, student, and teacher is monumental for a student’s progress. If any questions or concerns arise regarding any aspect of the studio, please contact me.
For younger students, I ask that parents accompany their children and sit-in on lessons until the child turns 8. This is to ensure that the student’s at-home practice is as effective as possible.


Tuition
Tuition payment is made on a monthly basis, and is due at the first lesson of each month. Each 3-month quarter has 12 lessons; divided equally, this means that each student will be paying for 4 lessons per month. Some months have 3 lessons while other months have 5 lessons, but payment is still the same - 4 lessons per month. Summer Quarter tuition is due in full at the first lesson of that term. Services are given as payment is received; therefore, if no tuition is paid at the first lesson of the month, then no lesson is given.


There is a minimum 3% tuition increase at the start of Fall Quarter.

Please call for current tuition rates.

Holidays
A list of holidays for the year will be emailed to the students (and/or parents) at the start of Fall Quarter.