Piano Studio Policies 2006-2007

GROUP LESSONS
Piano classes are small (no more than five students) and each student has the use of an electronic piano.  The goal of each class is to create a positive, fun, relaxed learning atmosphere.  Friendships develop and the joy of sharing music is experienced.  Students may progress more rapidly in a piano class environment and are grouped according to age and ability.  Students are responsible for bringing all of their materials with them to each class session.  Piano classes generally follow the local traditional school year calendar, beginning in September and ending in May.  Each student will receive a studio calendar in September.

PRIVATE LESSONS
If I am unable to place a student into a class appropriate for his or her age and ability, I will teach a private lesson if my studio schedule permits.  Private lessons are 30-minutes long and are preceded or followed by a 15-minute computer or piano lab session.  If, at a later date, I have a group that would be appropriate for a private student, I will request that the student join that group.  About once a month, I will schedule a Group Musicianship Class for students for listening exercises, theory review games, ear training and playing in ensemble.  These classes will replace the lesson for that week.  Group Musicianship Classes will usually be scheduled for the last week of the month. 

MUSIC & MATERIALS
Music and materials needed usually cost about $50 per year per student.  Continuing students will pay this at the beginning of summer session and new students will pay this fee at the beginning of the school year with the Registration/Reservation Fee.  New students will receive a three-ring binder for assignment sheets and handouts when they begin lessons.

LESSON TUITION
Preschool/Kindergarten Classes (Ages 4-5): $50 per month for 30-minutes weekly.  Older Children’s Classes (Ages 6+): $70 per month for 50-minutes weekly.
Partner Lessons (all ages): $80 per month for 40-minute lessons 
Private Lessons (All ages-limited availability): $80 per month for 30-minute lessons plus a 15-minute computer lab session.

Tuition includes from two to five monthly lessons or 32 lessons for the school year.  Tuition fees, payable in advance, are due on or before the first of the month.  A late fee of $10 is added for tuition payments not received by the tenth of the month.  Checks should be made payable to Marci Pittman.

DAILY PIANO PLAYING
Each first year student must commit to playing the piano and the materials assigned daily for 15 to 30-minutes, five days a week.  Parents and students should have a plan for when this playing time will take place each day.  The student must fill in a weekly playing chart (on the assignment sheet) and be responsible for completing the materials on the assignment sheet.  Students beyond their first year of lessons must commit to playing their materials assigned daily for a minimum of 30-minutes, five days a week.  It is consistent, efficient, daily practice that leads to the satisfaction and joy of steady progress towards solid musicianship.