Payment
My rates are $112 a month for four 35-minute weekly lessons ($28 a lesson). In the event of a five-week month the cost is $140. Payment is due at the first lesson of each month for the entire month. I accept Venmo (my preference) and personal checks. A $10 late fee may be charged if payment isn’t received in the first week of the month. Processing fees may apply if I am billing a charter school.
Missed Lessons
There is a $10 fee for same-day cancellations. If lessons are canceled ahead of time, I will either offer a make-up lesson or credit your account with the cost of the lesson. No make-up lesson or credit is given for missing a lesson without notice.
Music
I will either purchase music for you, and add it to the monthly fees, or send you links for the materials required. Please bring all books and music to each lesson.
Practicing
To see real progress, students need to practice 5-6 days a week for at least 15-20 minutes. Consistency is crucial; it’s better to practice daily for even 10 minutes than to practice only once a week for an hour. Set aside a specific time each day for practicing. Listen to the songs during the day whenever you can.A great practice consists of the following:
10+ minutes of listening – helps with memorization, motivation, and learning rhythm and intonation. This can happen in the car while traveling, before bed, while brushing teeth, etc.
5 minutes warm-up – trains the body and mind to use proper technique and play in tune
10-20 minutes practicing the assigned pieces – a general rule is to play each assigned song (or segment) correctly at least 3 times
Parents should plan to be involved in their child’s practice time for at least the first several months, depending on the child’s maturity and personality.
Parent participation
Parents are always invited to the lesson! As a teacher, I recommend that you always attend and take notes in order to support your child at home. As a fellow-parent, I realize this isn’t always realistic and I am happy to talk with you briefly at the end of the lesson time about the lesson and practice assignment.
Holidays/Vacations
No lessons are given during the Thanksgiving week, 2 week winter break and 2 week spring break (according to the Santee School District calendar). There will be a 4-5 week summer break, which I will schedule in the spring. There is no charge for these holiday and vacation weeks.
Discontinuance of Lessons
Please inform me at least two weeks in advance if you wish to discontinue lessons.