Lesson policies

Materials

In addition to the cello, each student will be expected to purchase lesson materials. Books and music will be determined by the teacher; however, feel free to bring in any music which interests you or that you need help with (e.g., school orchestra and chamber music). Both a music stand and metronome are required for home practice.

Private Practice

Lessons are available in lengths of 30 minutes. Just as weekly lessons motivate progress, every day practice builds a solid foundation that makes it possible to obtain the most from these lessons. Daily practice should correspond to one and a half times the length of the lesson (e.g., at least 45 minutes of daily practice for a 30-minute lesson). Learning music can be an incredibly joyful and rewarding experience, but you cannot cram practicing. Short, concentrated sessions (30 minutes for most students) tend to produce the best results. Using practicing as a study break 2 or 3 times a day during the school year can also be very effective.

A note to parents: Most parents remember to ask kids if they have done their English/Math/etc. homework, but often neglect to ask about music practice. With the multitude of today’s distractions (internet, sports, computer games), sometimes folks honestly forget to practice. Asking your child if they’ve picked up the cello, or just what is he/she doing in lessons can be that gentle reminder needed to start a practice session. The next lesson will be that much more productive.

Attendance Policy

Generally, I do not make up the lesson when the student is absent and I am present. Keep in mind that weekly lessons promote steady progress. Because I occasionally ask my students to reschedule due to conflicts, I do make some exceptions. First, I must have at least 24 hours’ notice. If possible, I prefer to reschedule a lesson rather than simply cancel it. It is ultimately my decision whether or not to credit lessons. Again, I will try to remain as flexible as possible, but we all have busy schedules and I cannot justify too much open, unpaid studio time.

Remuneration

Payment for lessons is due the first week of the month. The monthly fee covers weekly lessons based on your selected lesson length, regardless of whether the month has four or five weeks. See the attendance policy regarding cancellations.

If a holiday coincides with your lesson day, I do not provide credit or reimbursements. However, you are encouraged to reschedule your lesson for that week.

If you wish to stop taking lessons, I require a minimum of 30 days’ notice. If you are taking a break for reasons such as vacations, summer camps, or other temporary absences, we can pause your lessons for that period.