1. Tuition is due on the first lesson of the month. The tuition is based on a 12-month period running from January 1 through December 31. Each student receives the same number of lessons.
Fee schedule: 30 minute weekly private lessons – $70.00 per month
45 minute weekly group lessons – $70.00 per month
45 minute weekly private lessons – $90.00 per month
60 minute weekly private lessons – $140.00 per month
2. Due to my busy schedule, lessons missed due to illness or emergency might not be rescheduled. Parents and students should be responsible to see that the lesson time is kept without other conflicts. This policy is for the student’s benefit and is necessary for establishing a basis for steady instruction. This is in accord with the recommendations of the Hawaii Music Teachers Association and the Music Teachers national Association.
3. There are three recitals a year – Spring/Senior Recital in May, Ensemble Recital in September, and the Holiday Recital in December. It is mandatory that all students participate since music is a performing art.
4. All students will participate in the Annual Exam or a similar evaluation held in April/May.
5. So that each lesson is used most efficiently, students should be prepared – this means being punctual, having practiced all pieces, completed their Theory and bringing all books and music.
6. Elementary students will practice a minimum of 30 minutes, 6 days a week; intermediate students – 45 minutes and advanced students – 60 minutes.
7. An assignment book will be used to keep track of pieces – what and how to practice – and to keep a practice record.
8. Fingernails will be trimmed short and neat in order to develop the correct hand position.
9. All performances by my students, not connected with the studio, must be cleared by me in advance. This is for the protection of the student.
10. During the summer, ensemble classes are held for my students. We concentrate on ensemble pieces – music written for 1 piano 4 hands or 6 hands, 2 pianos 4 or 8 hands, and other combinations. This different format gives us a much needed change (for student and teacher!) and re-motivates us after a heavy schedule of recitals, competitions and auditions. Since the students are in groups, this creates peer support and teaches responsibility – they have to keep up with their partners. It will also help lessen the anxiety of having to play for others and have fun at the same time. Piano is primarily a solo instrument, so this gives my students an opportunity to experience music in an “orchestral” setting. Not many students have this chance to broaden their piano lessons into music lessons. It also strengthens rhythm, sight reading and aural training. There’s more time for me to expose my students to new repertoire, more theory and music history. Group activities include computer theory and musicianship games, composition and rehearsals with their partners. Classes are held for 1 hour once a week.
Private lessons are also offered for those students who would like to do both. I recommend that my students who are taking 45 and 60 minute lessons take private also, to keep up their repertoire.
11. Non-summer session students are required to place a deposit of one month’s tuition in order to ensure a slot for the Fall Session. (deposit is not September’s tuition)
12. Students will be placed on a one month probation period if he/she repeatedly comes to lessons unprepared. After that time, it will be decided whether to continue or terminate lessons.
13. Termination of lessons must be given one month in advance or payment of one month’s tuition is due.
14. My students will have the opportunity to perform in both non-competitive and competitive events. I expect pieces prepared well in advance of the performance. Memory should be done at least a month before the performance to allow time for perfecting details and to avoid memory slips.