Payment

Lesson payment shall be made in advance on a monthly basis on the first lesson of each month.

Absences/Cancellation

In order to progress, a piano student should attend lessons weekly. However, I understand that illnesses, emergencies, and unforeseen events happen. I will reschedule lessons provided that you notify me via phone call by the earlier of noon on lesson day or three hours before the lesson. I do not refund or credit missed lessons. If you will have a planned absence (e.g., vacation), please let me know prior to paying tuition and we will either reschedule the lesson or reduce your tuition pro rata.

Practicing

I will require all students to log how much they practiced prior to each lesson. A beginner piano student should practice no less than thirty minutes per day, six days per week. This is the absolute minimum that a student can practice and make progress. More advanced students should practice more. Remember that professional musicians practice for multiple hours per day. If a student is not making progress, we will first examine their practice habits.

Instrument

Playing the piano is a physical activity that involves training muscles. Because of this, it is necessary that the student practice on an instrument that will build the correct muscle memory. A grand or baby grand piano is the best instrument to use, but I understand not everyone (including me) has the money or space for such an instrument. Any acoustic piano that is kept in tune and in good repair with a working sustain/damper pedal is sufficient. An electric piano (with a pedal or pedal attachment) is an acceptable alternative provided that it has both (a) weighted keys like a piano, and (b) all 88 keys. A “keyboard” or “synthesizer” without weighted keys or with a more limited range will not suffice.

Books and Lesson Materials

The student is responsible for purchasing lesson books. In the event that the student progresses past method books and begins playing proper music, there is a multitude of great material in the public domain available for download. Additionally, all student should bring a spiral notebook to lessons dedicated solely to piano lessons.