Policies and Procedures
Teaching children to play music is a joy for both the practicing parent and for the instructor. Each child has a unique way of learning and I find this process fascinating and rewarding. Making sure that the parents and teacher are on the same page is very important to ensure the best environment for teaching. Please adhere to the following general policies and procedures.
Continuity of education – It is very important to me that each child is given the opportunity to do his or her best. Please do your best to make sure that you are at every lesson. If you need to miss a lesson for illness or family vacation please let me know at least 24 hours in advance so that I might schedule a make up lesson with you in a timely fashion. A make up lesson is not guaranteed, but I will do my best. Excessive absences will not be eligible for make-ups. Please keep in mind that you are paying for the instructor’s time rather than a set number of lessons. If I need to cancel a lesson, you have the choice of receiving a make-up lesson or a credit towards the next semester of lessons.
Financial Agreement – Throughout the year, we work on a semester based system of learning. Tuition is due at the beginning of the semester at the child’s first lesson. If you have questions regarding this policy, my door and ears are always open. Because continuity of education is so important to me, financial arrangements and payment arrangements can be made.
Timeliness - If you arrive late to your lesson please be aware that you will receive only the rest of the scheduled lesson time. The schedule is tight and I cannot let lateness affect the whole day’s lessons.
Practicing Parent - If possible, please be present for lessons (with the exception of group lessons). It is important that the parents knows what the child is working on in order to make the most of practicing. If you are unable to be present for lessons (or feel that your child responds better if you are not there) – be sure to be timely with drop off and pick up. Also, throughout the week refer to my lesson notes to help your child practice.
Practice - Please commit to practicing with your child. Lessons are only effective if the parent and child practice the skills at home. For three year olds, even 5-10 minutes a day is sufficient. As the skills evolve the practicing should be longer. I currently do not have any children within this studio who need to practice longer than 20-30 minutes a day. Shorter, more consistent increments are always preferred.
Observation - This is a big part of the Suzuki method. For the child who is being observed, he or she learns to be comfortable playing in front of onlookers. This is wonderful preparation for recitals! And, of course, for the child who is observing – a wealth of knowledge from both the instructor and the student. I may occasionally set up a prospective or current student to observe your child’s lesson. Please understand that, as a Suzuki teacher, I teach individual lesson rather than private lessons (please contact me for further explanation on this very important Suzuki tenet). If your child is being observed, all of my attention will be on her/him for the duration of the lesson.
Courteous Behavior – Using manners goes a long way with me. Please be respectful in my home, when speaking with me, and in emails. Much goes into the musical education of a child and I need to be able to have a good working relationship with parents.
If you feel that you cannot follow these policies, please contact me and we can discuss it. If you feel that you are able to adhere to my policies and procedures and would like to be considered for placement on the wait list, please email me.