Policies For Children

Policies For Adults

Introduction

A child's experiences with music is an investment in a lifetime of musical pleasure, success, and personal fulfilment. Therefore, in order for as much as possible to be achieved by your child, and my wish of them receiving the most thorough tuition possible, I have brought together the following policies regarding your child’s musical study.
   Should you have any queries at all regarding the following policies, or matters relating to your child learning the piano, please do not hesitate to contact me, as I will gladly discuss any concerns you may have.

Lesson Fees

   Lesson fees must be paid in full, and before the lesson proceeds.  This is to ensure that, payments are dealt with satisfactorily, and not accidentally forgotten.  This also means the lesson can then be enjoyed to the full, without any added pressure.  If preferred, lessons may be paid for in advance, however, please be aware, there will be no refund available in the case of a missed lesson, but instead, can be rescheduled for another time.
   Should payments happen to be overdew for two or more lessons, lessons will be postponed, and will resume as soon as the outstanding balance has been met.  Please also be aware, a late payment fee of £10 will be added to the outstanding balance.  If payments are regularly inconsistent, either by being late, or are not paid in the full amount, lessons may be terminated.

   Current prices:

   Half an hour, £17.50.
   One hour, £30.

   These prices are currently stable, but are subject to change, of which you will be notified in advance.
   An initial consultation lesson is recommended, prior to a fixed programme of study beginning.  This will be free of charge, regardless of how much time the student requires, and is intended as a general introduction to lessons, also providing the opportunity to meet, and to informally discuss the way forward.

-Notice Requirements -

   As well as having to pay for the lesson itself, you are also paying for the time allocated for that lesson, and the preparation involved.  (For more information, please request a copy of “What You Are Paying For”).  It is therefore important to be aware, a minimum of 24 hours notice is required for cancellations.  Last minute
cancellations, or failure to show, will result in you having to still pay the full price for that lesson, as it is then too late to offer the reserved time to another student.   With sufficient notice, or in the case of an emergency, it would be possible to reschedule the lesson for another time, with respect to when is convenient for both teacher and student.  If desired, lessons may also be arranged for during the school holidays.
   With regards to discontinuing lessons, 1 full months notice is required.  This is to ensure a positive closure for the student, and to reflect on what has been achieved.  This will also enable the teacher to advertise the vacancy, or to offer the reserved time to another student.
 
-Lesson Guidelines -

   It is important that all students arrive for their lesson punctual, and well prepared.  This includes, having a suitable pair of shoes, relevant books recommended for study, and any other materials supplied by the teacher.
   Students may also bring with them, manuscript and/or note paper, a metronome, and a recording device, in order to facilitate their private study.  (Please note, recordings made during a lesson must be intended for private use only).
   It is strongly recommended, that students have either an acoustic piano, or a keyboard with weighted keys, with which to practice at home.

Practice

   Music is, like with any other art form, a lot of fun, and extremely satisfying in many regards.  However, rewards are not granted without a substantial amount of dedicated practice, which should, ideally, take place on a daily basis.  The length of a practice session will depend on the student's own age and ability, so should be discussed with the teacher.
   The word "practice" means focused attention on specific areas of study, with regards to sound quality, applied techniques, areas of difficulty etc.  Practicing regularly, and at intervals, will benefit the student's relationship with their instrument tremendously, and over time, they will notice great improvements in their quality of playing.
   It is advised, that each practice session should begin with finger exercises, such as scales, before attempting to start work on a piece.  This way, both the instrument and the student have warmed up sufficiently to continue with the demands of a piece, and to tackle each arising challenge more effectively.  (For a detailed practice guide, please request a copy of “How To Practice”).
   Students are encouraged to document their practice routines on a regular basis, and may use a prepared practice chart supplied by the teacher.  Having practiced specified music before the lesson, will inevitably mean, extra valuable time can be spent focusing on detail, as well as allowing more time during their lesson for other musical activities.

Performances and Grades

   Whilst the student is learning, they will progress through various stages, and levels, of ability.  Any progression is always kept to a comfortable, but steady rate, developing a range of skills, such as reading and writing music, and general technique, along with creativity, and positive attitudes.
   Students are encouraged to play frequently, to friends and family.  This helps to increase their self confidence, and develop a comfortable relationship with their instrument, and the music they play.  It is also possible for public performances, and other musical opportunities, to be arranged for the student to participate in.
   If requested, the student may wish to prepare for a graded examination.  In this case, you are advised initially to discuss the specifications and requirements with the teacher, to ensure the best possible arrangements can be met for the student.
   Examinations will fall under the “Trinity” board, (Trinity Conservatoire of Music, London), unless specified otherwise.  It is also possible to request a current edition of the syllabus at any time.

Student Reports

   It is possible for the teacher to compile and supply a student report, upon request.  With sufficient notice, the student’s report can be available for their next due lesson, and all information is kept confidential.
   Reports may include aspects of the student’s progress, strengths and weaknesses, any behavioural issues, and aspirations for the future.  They are intended to provide parents with information on their child’s general progress, and commitment in lessons, so should there be any concerns, the matter can be addressed more effectively.  Also, by dealing with matters in this way, will avoid any unnecessary discomfort which the student may experience whilst present in discussion.
   It is preferred, that lessons take place without a parent or guardian present.  However, in the case of inappropriate behaviour, or under medical circumstances, suitable arrangements can be made.

Additional Information

   There are many organizations and charities dedicated to musicians, and which support all aspects of playing and enjoying music.  These may require membership, which then allows individuals full access to library services, practice facilities, reduced ticket prices for concerts and other activities, as well as keeping members up to date with developments within the music world.  Please consult the teacher for further details.