YOUTH AND TEENAGE LESSON FAQS (Ages 5 - 19)
My teaching philosophy utilizes a holistic approach to music learning based in ear training, music theory, technique exercises, active listening as well as learning a wide range of pieces rooted in different musical styles. My vocal approach relies on principles of Somatic Voicework™ The Lovetri Method, a vocal pedagogy method that focuses on strengthening head and chest registers to promote vocal versatility and a healthy singing practice. Lessons are tailored to teach students unique methods of learning, some preferring a more rigorous conservatory style approach, others preferring a more playful and exploratory approach.
CAN YOU TELL ME A BIT MORE ABOUT YOUR TEACHING PHILOSOPHY?
CAN WE TAKE ONE LESSON BEFORE MAKING A FULL SEMESTER COMMITMENT?
All new students are required to take a trial lesson prior to committing to the semester. Trial lessons are important for both the student and the teacher. I’ll talk with the student/parents about musical goals, previous experience, and I’ll ask the student to play something for me to assess their level (beginner, intermediate, etc.) After that, we’ll have a regular lesson. Please fill out this new student intake voice form or piano form before our first lesson. Trial lessons are 35 minutes // $85.
IS THERE A MINIMUM COMMITMENT TO SIGN MY CHILD UP FOR LESSONS?
Regularity and consistency are extremely important when learning a musical instrument. All school age students are required to make a full semester commitment and take weekly lessons. I cannot take on students who are unable to make a full semester commitment.
WHEN DO SEMESTERS BEGIN AND END?
Semester 1 begins after Labor Day and goes until the end of January (approximately 18 weeks.) The schedule follows the public school calendar. No lessons are scheduled over any major school holidays (Thanksgiving, Winter Break, etc). Semester 2 begins the first week of February and runs until the third week in June. (approximately 18 weeks) Summer Session begins the last week of June and runs until Labor Day.
WHEN CAN I SIGN UP FOR THE SEMESTER?
Scheduling for my studio opens 2x per year, in early August for the main school year and in June for Summer Session. Scheduling is done on a first-come first served basis, with priority given to returning families. Once the schedule is released, I will place a hold on your preferred time for one week, at which point tuition is due in full to confirm the time slot. Students are strongly urged to choose a lesson time that will work for the entire school year.
DO YOU OFFER MAKEUPS FOR A MISSED LESSON?
The last week before each semester ends is make-up week. During this week, any lessons during the semester that were missed are made up at the student’s regular time. Lessons can also be made up during the normal semester (schedules allowing) as long as 24 hours notice is given.
DO YOU HAVE A CANCELLATION & RESCHEDULE POLICY?
24 hours advanced notice is required in order to cancel or reschedule the lesson without penalty. If you cancel a lesson with less than 24 hours notice or fail to show up, you will be charged for the lesson.
I understand people get sick! As a courtesy, I will honor one late reschedule/cancellation per semester due to an extenuating circumstance such as sickness, etc.
BUT WHAT IF MY CHILD IS SICK?
I am not able to extend lesson times should we start late. This causes backlogs for all subsequent students coming to studio. Therefore, please be as punctual as possible, so that you can ensure your full lesson time. If you are more than 15 minutes late for a scheduled lesson, I cannot keep the lesson, and payment in full will be taken for the missed lesson.
WHAT IS YOUR LATE POLICY?
I host two recitals a year, one in February and one in June. Each student is required to pay a $50 recital fee per semester which I use to cover the recital hall rental fee, hire an accompanist, and pay for other recital related fees.
DO YOU HOST RECITALS?
DO YOU OFFER AUDITION COACHING & PORTFOLIO PREP FOR HIGH SCHOOL & COLLEGE ADMISSIONS?
Yes, I offer special audition and portfolio prep sessions. These sessions focus on live audition/performance techniques and are specifically tailored to the application requirements. Most art HS and college auditions and applications are due in the Fall, so I recommend students begin prep work at least 6 months prior, in March or April of the previous year.
WHAT ARE YOU EXPECTATIONS FOR YOUR STUDENTS?
Students are expected to practice at home consistently throughout the week. Some improvement and growth should be shown at each lesson. Learning an instrument is virtually impossible if students do not give time outside of class to their instrument. I am always available to work with families to come up with a realistic practice schedule for the student.
I WANT TO TAKE LESSONS BUT I’M NOT SURE I CAN AFFORD THEM. IS THERE ANYTHING YOU CAN DO TO HELP?
Everyone should have access to a musical education, should they desire. Please discuss with me any financial hardship you may have, and I will work with you to arrive at a mutually agreeable plan.