2014-2015 Studio Policies

EXPECTATIONS:
Each student progresses differently, and it is my goal to support and help each student on her or her journey towards becoming a more developed flutist and musician through creative interaction and positive reinforcement.  It is necessary however, for each student to show commitment and a willingness to learn.  Practice when studying musical instrument is essential, and consistent focused work is needed in order progress.  In my studio the expectation is to have five days a week of practice with 20-30 min/day for beginning students, 30-45min/day and 45-60 min. or more/day for more advanced students.  Material assigned in lessons needs to be well prepared in order to continue to move forward the next week.  With this said, I understand that our lives can be quite hectic!  If a busy week is coming up with school or family obligations, we will plan our assignments out accordingly!  I encourage students to come to lessons even if they do not feel as prepared as they would like; there are always many exercises we can explore for ear training, tone development, and sight-reading outside of the assigned lesson material.  Students are expected to fill out their assignment sheet and practice log each week.  It is best to do this during the practice session (and not wait until the end of the week!) in order to facilitate the most efficient use of lesson time.   

WHAT TO BRING:
  1. Flute, which should be well maintained with a cleaning rod and cleaning cloth.  It is difficult and frustrating to play and progress on a flute with leaks or mechanical problems.
  2. All current music, preferably in a folder or binder.  Organized materials make for a more efficient use of the lesson time.  
  3. A pencil for marking your music. 
  4. A notebook, practice-log or folder for assignments and lesson comments (we can discuss the best choice in your lesson).
  5. A recording device, such as an iphone, ipad, ipod etc.  This will allow me to record important examples for students, allow for us to record portions of the lesson and facilitate good practice habits.  If you do not have a recording device, just let me know, we will work something out.

COMMUNICATION:
Email is my preferred form of communication and I check it regularly.  I will always make my best effort to return your email within 24 hours.  I will use this median to keep you updated with tuition bills, lesson dates and recital information.  However, if you need to contact me immediately, or you are more comfortable contacting me via telephone, please feel free to call/text my cell phone at 585-704-5751.  Communication between student and teacher is essential.  If you find yourself frustrated with the material assigned to you during the week, feel free to contact me and we will find a solution.

ATTENDANCE:
Weekly attendance of all students is expected. Payment of the tuition fee reserves weekly time slot for each student each semester, regardless if he or she chooses to attend his or her lesson.  This includes Skype/FaceTime lessons!  Tuition will be assessed by the lesson package and will not be refunded for late cancelation. 
  • Make-ups for illness: 
To be eligible for a make-up lesson for illness, you must inform me that you will be absent by phone no later than 10:00 am on the day of your lesson. 
  • Make-ups for other reasons:  
Please try not to schedule appointments during your regular lesson time.  If this is unavoidable, please notify me one week before your absence to be eligible for a make-up lesson or class.   I will do my best to accommodate up to three of these per semester, after that it will be up to my discretion and availability.
  •  Make-ups for inclement weather: 
These lessons will be made up, and do not use one of your three allotted make-ups per semester.
  • Because I am an active performer, I occasionally have to cancel or reschedule lessons.  In this circumstance, you may choose whether to schedule a make-up lesson, or attend a make-up class.  

FEES:
Tuition: Tuition is due at the beginning of the semester, the first lesson of a lesson-package, or in special cases on a monthly basis. Visit my Tuition & Location page for more info on the costs of lessons.Recital Accompaniment: $50.00, covers one 30-minute rehearsal plus the performance.
Sheet Music: Per copyright laws, students may not perform from copied music.  Sheet music is a necessary expense when taking lessons, and tends to increase as students become more advanced, so please factor this into your budget for lessons.  If the required music is in the public domain, I will make it available for download on my website.

Responsibilities

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Practice regularly and effectively!
    - Practice methods and goals will be addressed in lessons.
    - Try, try, try!
  • Arrive for lessons on time
  • Bring lesson materials (flute, pencil, all music, notebook) to all lessons.
  • Maintain and care for your instrument on a daily basis
  • Have fun and keep an open mind and positive attitude!
  • Take advantage of opportunities to perform, compete, collaborate with other young artists, and hear live performances by professional musicians.
PARENT RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Encourage and monitor practice sessions
  • For students 12 and under, this will mean direct supervision and guidance. 
    - Know your student’s practice goals and methods so that you can assist effectively
  • Drop off and pick up student on time
  • Abide by all terms of the studio agreement, and make sure that students understand these terms as well.
  • Make tuition payments on time.
  • Ensure that lessons are cancelled with at least one day ahead in order to qualify for a make-up lesson.
  • Provide one month’s notice if your student needs to discontinue lessons before the end of the year.
  • Provide and properly maintain all necessary instruments and other equipment.
  • Keep in direct contact with both teacher and student about successes, struggles, questions, concerns.  Communication is key!
    - Please plan to come to the first 5 minutes of your student’s lesson a few times a year to touch base about the student’s progress and needs.
TEACHER RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Provide a weekly 30-, 45-, or 60-minute lesson.
  • Cancel lessons by phone and email with 24-hour advance notice.
  • Utilize the finest teaching methods, materials, music, and literature available.
  • Provide a solid and comprehensive musical understanding.
  • Foster a love of music through fun, humor, discipline, understanding, and positive reinforcement.
  • Forge and nurture a connection with each student and work in each student’s best interest.
  • Acknowledge and praise students’ individual strengths and adjust teaching style accordingly.
  • Provide a safe, nurturing atmosphere that encourages growth and exploration.
  • Help students to develop life skills such as self-discipline, responsibility, and self-esteem through their study of music.
  • Prepare the student for auditions, contests, and performances.
  • Publicize concerts, events, and opportunities related to students’ musical studies.
  • Help students to grow as musicians and as people, keeping musical goals integrated with human goals.
Important Dates:
8/25/14: Fall Lessons Begin