Philosophy & Studio Policy

PHILOSOPHY:

I firmly believe:

  • that everyone, regardless of age, has music inside of them.  This music can be discovered and nurtured regardless of the student’s background, natural skill set, commitment level or disability.
  • that the study of music is vital to everyone’s growth.  Music is what drives cultures around the globe; their daily activities, their histories and their interests are all showcased in their music.
  • everyone can meet their highest potential. With this in mind, students, regardless of natural ability, will thrive. Achieving this personal potential will be done through private and group instructions.  Group instruction with students of similar age, goals, and abilities will foster an environment of learning.  All aspects of learning and performing will be experienced within the group setting.  The private setting will be used to address individual needs and concerns.
  • I create a cooperative environment between myself and the student.  This cooperative learning environment must foster an understanding between myself and the student in regards to long and short-term goals, goal setting, recitals, competitions, etc.
  • students should experience and study several pieces simultaneously to offer a wide variety of opportunities for learning concepts. Standard piano literature, as well as non-traditional repertoire, will be taught. Repertoire will be based upon the long and short-term goals.  Selections will cover simpler versions of more difficult literature, simpler versions of familiar and well-loved melodies, original piano literature as well as popular and/or jazz styles of music.  It is not the goal or mind set of this studio to perfect every piece, but to find the joy of music and have as many magical musical moments as possible.  A curriculum that is all-inclusive and captures all areas of musical training will help the students thrive and reach their highest potential.
  • a balanced curriculum is one that includes solo repertoire, technical exercises, music theory, ear-training, harmonization, transposition, improvisation, sight-reading, and music appreciation.
  • that the best method for students to grasp information is through the pedagogical principles of Sound, Feel, Symbol, Name.  This sequential introduction of new material allows for the human brain to process new information long before the hands and eyes are involved.  This sequences learning in the brain, making it easier for students to reach their highest potential. Technical training will be used to enhance development for strong physical skills while simultaneously drawing upon technique within the repertoire.
  • that the holistic approach to music is necessary for students to reach their highest potential, therefore an approach that encompasses all areas of music as well as treatment of the individual as a whole is the best approach.

 

POLICY:

  • Registration fee: A non-refundable fee of $100 is due at the time of enrollment and again each spring to reserve your students spot for the fall.  This deposit also covers the "additional fees" listed on the tuition page. Additional fees cover books, materials, performance and technology fees.  There will be an opportunity for 2 formal recitals throughout the year, but innumerable performance opportunities within the community and among the student’s peers.
  • Tuition: Enrollment is for the entire school year (September to May).  Because of the unique offerings of group, partner and private lessons, a further breakdown of tuition costs can be found under the studio tab "tuition and fees." Billing for tuition occurs online via email and can be paid via Visa card.  Tuition payment must be received in advance of instruction.  I prefer that you not send tuition checks with students to lessons. Payments may be made annually, quarterly or monthly as per your budget.  All payment arrangements must be approved with Mrs. Flynn prior to lessons beginning.
  • Missed Lessons:  Your lesson slot is reserved for you and an emailed lesson reminder is sent prior to every lesson. Please make every effort to read all lesson reminders and schedule other activities around your lesson time.

Before you ask to reschedule a lesson, please observe the following:

  • There are no make-ups for lessons canceled without 24 hours prior notice.
  • Missed lessons may possibly be rescheduled IF the teacher’s schedule allows and there are openings available.
  • Missed group lessons will not be made up but your pianist may attend another group lesson within the same week if available.
  • The studio remains open during storms. If you choose to miss a lesson due to inclement weather the lesson may be rescheduled only if there are openings available OR lessons may be held via Skype or FaceTime.

There are NO Refunds for ANY missed lessons.

Lesson Termination

  • It is expected that a student will commit to lessons for an entire session. If lessons are discontinued by you before the end of a session these will be due:  $50 cancellation fee and the equivalent of two weeks worth of lessons.
  • Lessons may be terminated by the teacher at any time if..
  • Tuition balances are not paid
  • Late payments occur on a regular basis.

 

PRACTICE EXPECTATIONS

  • Mindfulness & Efficiency is more important than the amount of practice time.
  • Every student should develop a plan so that 5 practice times are part of the weekly schedule (just like your other extra-curricular activities)

HOW MUCH PRACTICE TIME IS ENOUGH?

  • Lesson Book Primer to Level 2: Schedule at least 15-20 minutes each day. Consistency and covering all assignments counts more than how long each day.
  • Moving away from Lesson Books: Schedule at least 30-minute practice sessions or break it up into two 15-minute sessions a day or, three 10-minute sessions.
  • Advancing: Schedule at least 40-minute practice sessions or break it up into two 20-minute sessions, etc.

 

MATERIALS

Music Books

All music books will be supplied by me. As part of your $50 book fee, your pianist will either borrow or keep the books given at the lesson. On occasion, a book may cost too much and I’ll ask you to purchase the book. Payment for the book must be made at the next lesson.

 

Additional Required Materials

  • A metronome or metronome app.
  • A binder for handouts, important documents, etc.
  • A book bag to keep and carry all books and binder.
  • An iPad is HIGHLY recommended but not required, yet.