I teach the language of music. My studio has a positive and enthusiastic environment with the focus of fostering musical awareness, appreciation, and musicianship. Lessons are tailored to match the specific learning needs of each student. My goal is to develop innate musicality in each student by encouraging daily practice and a commitment to artistry and mastery, as well as for students to carry with them an enjoyment of music for a lifetime. 
​​

Student and Family Responsibilities
It's the student's responsibility to arrive at their piano lesson on time, well-prepared, and with their assignment books and music. Students must have regular access to an in-tune, acoustic piano (or touch-sensitive keyboard with 88 weighted keys and pedals). If an assignment or concept is not fully understood, please ask. Questions and curiosity are encouraged. 

​Attendance
Try to keep our regular schedule of lessons. One make up lesson per semester is offered at the end of the fall and spring semesters due to illness, school-related absences, or other conflicts. If you have attended all of your lessons over the course of the semester, consider this week's lesson to be free of charge as a way to say thank you! Virtual lessons are available if a student is sick, but feels well enough to have their lesson online. In order to minimize absences, students who may have ongoing conflicts with their regular lesson time should request a permanent lesson time change. If I need to cancel or reschedule for any reason, I will do my best to make up this missed lesson as soon as possible. 

Materials
Piano lessons and repertoire are unique to each student. The student is responsible for purchasing music, which can be bought through the studio. 

Payment
Monthly payments are due by the 1st of each month. September through May, the academic year consists of 32 regular lessons and two make up lessons. The number of lessons per month varies, however the monthly payment amount will remain the same, reflecting an average cost over 9 months. Payments for summer lessons are due on June 1 and July 1. I accept cash, Venmo, PayPal, or check. 

Summer
It is recommended that students take as many lessons as possible during the summer. A minimum of eight lessons over the summer is required to hold your spot in the fall. Special offerings for the summer months are also available, which will be announced in the spring. 

Recitals & Performances 
Due to Covid-19, Fall and Spring recitals are currently on hold. Students are encouraged to share their musical gifts with family and friends via virtual recitals, or as the opportunity arises!  

​Practicing at Home
Spend time practicing the piano. Make it a part of your daily routine. Complete all assignments and written theory homework, and then spend time exploring! Record your practice time and get a parent's signature every week -- this helps develop good habits. Ask me how students can earn a practice trophy at the spring recital and brag tags throughout the year! 

​Recommended Practice Time Per Level:
Kindergarten: 75 minutes per week
First year students: 100 minutes per week
Elementary level: 100-150 minutes per week
Intermediate: 150-225 minutes per week
Advanced: 225-300 minutes per week​

​Your Home Piano
An acoustic piano is strongly recommended. Pianos should be tuned at least once a year, which typically costs $100-130. If you prefer a digital piano, I recommend a full-size keyboard or clavinova (88 keys), with weighted, touch-sensitive keys and pedals. ​​​It's also important to check your bench height and its distance from the piano. Proper alignment is extremely important for your technical development. Not sure? Text me a picture! 

Termination of Lessons
If you wish to discontinue lessons, a written notice must be given 30 days prior to termination. Full payment through the final 30 days is required. Students are expected to attend the lessons during the 30-day termination period. The teacher, parent(s), and student should then make every effort to create a positive and respectful ending to the musical experience. 
​
Playing Piano Is Fun! 
Do you know what's even more fun? Playing well! Practice slowly, and in small sections, and the gradual improvements will add up to great accomplishments!