A Word About Policies
To encourage consistent attendance and maximum dedication from students, it is necessary to have firm policies in place. This, in turn, produces an excellent rate of progress and satisfied customers. Customers who abide by the policies will see a maximum return on their investment, and in turn, I will be able to focus my energy on teaching the student instead of discussing payment issues and such with clients.
I have written policies that are designed to protect both the interests of the student/client and the teacher. These policies have been developed and fine-tuned over many years of teaching.
I am strict with my policies. This means that all policies will be fully enforced. I have been known to dismiss students and clients for non-payment, excessive late payments, failure to practice, failure to be prepared for class, excessive absences, and the like. So please do not enroll if you hope you can twist my arm to give lessons on your terms. Even in a down economy, I limit my studio's size. Although I could grow my income exponentially by doubling my student load, my family would suffer, as would the quality of instruction. I have no desire to make every "sale" by enrolling every student who wants lessons. When you enroll, I want you to stay here for a while, not just a month or two. That is why I take great care to interview both parents and the student before offering a spot in my studio, and I do not take everyone. My advice to new students is to READ CAREFULLY over the policies and be sure that you can live my policies before you enroll in lessons. If you want to observe a lesson first and see if it's for you, let me know. Then, if you are still having reservations, then by all means, see if you can find someone who has the policies and style of instruction that you are looking for.
A Word About Rates
I have over eleven years experience as a professional pianist, composer, arranger, and teacher, although I now focus almost exclusively on teaching. This means that I am better able to put 100% into teaching than teachers who are distracted with lots of gigs. I also have a Bachelor's degree in music (not all private teachers have a degree...be sure to ask them). I believe my rates are reasonable for a professional of my experience and education.
Teaching is my livelihood. It isn't just a part-time hobby I dabble in for some extra spending money. That said, I do ask that clients please take care of me by paying on time, at the first lesson of the month. This reduces my administrative time so I can focus on teaching, and not awkward collection calls.
