Studio Policy

Tuition

Each month you will have a weekly lesson dedicated to your child and one monthly group lesson. All lessons focus on developing ability and artistry. Beyond music, we will work on creating a positive growth mindset, perseverance, problem solving, and other essential life skills. Cost varies based on length of time/level of the student. Your presence at lessons encourages your child and in my experience helps them learn more quickly. Students younger than 11 will need their parents at every lesson and assistance in home practicing.

In general-

Pretwinkle students age 6 or younger take 15-20 minute lessons ($60/month)

Book 1 students take 30 min lessons($100/month) book 2+ take 45 minute lessons ($150/month) and book 4+ take hour lessons. ($200/month). Tuition during the school year is the same each month regardless of the number of lessons.  A 10% discount is given to siblings of students who are already enrolled. 

 

Tuition is due on the 1st day of each month (Jan 1, Feb 1, March 1, etc.) You will receive an invoice for each month. Invoices not paid by the 5th will have a $15 late fee added to tuition unless there is a very specific need to wait. Payment can be made using Venmo (Amy_Thacker), cash, or check. Teaching is my main source of income and how I care for my family. Your prompt payment is appreciated!

 

I ask that you give me one month’s notice if you wish to discontinue lessons. This allows me to end lessons on a positive note and gives me time to find another student to fill your spot. 

 

Suzuki Parent Class

Parents should plan to take this 3 week class before beginning lessons. It will help you learn about the man behind the movement, his legacy, why so many parents love Suzuki lessons and how music shapes your child’s character. The cost is $30. 

 

Makeup lessons

I unfortunately cannot offer makeup lessons if your child is sick or chooses to go to another activity that week. Please stay home if you are sick. I can do an online lesson if your student is feeling well enough. I also use online lessons if the weather doesn’t allow me to drive through the canyon. (Brigham only). You may opt to switch lessons with another student if you can’t make your regular lesson time. If the student arrives late, (ex: 15 minutes) they will only have the remaining time left in their lesson slot (15 min for a 30 min lesson). If you arrive after your lesson slot has ended, you will not be eligible for a makeup lesson. I usually have another student scheduled or my teaching day is done. When the absence isn't communicated, I'm left waiting for you to come and unable to do anything else meaningful in that time slot. I have also paid for childcare during your lesson, a cost that is not refundable for me. 

 

If you are going on a family vacation longer than a week, I will do a makeup lesson once during the school year. You need to let me know at least two weeks in advance if you want to use this option. 

 

If I ever need to cancel due to illness or a special family emergency, I will always make up the lesson. 

 

Summer lessons

In May, we will schedule summer lessons. You may schedule as many lessons as you will be home for. Once we have scheduled those lessons, I won’t be able to change them. Please know the dates of any family vacations or camps ahead of time. 

 

Practicing

Progress is made through practicing. As a general rule, you should practice about as long each day as your lessons are. Students who are unable to practice 3 days a week will not make meaningful progress. Best practice is to have 5-7 practice sessions each week. If a student practices less than 3 days for a month, it’s time to have a conversation about it. 

 

Please know, whatever age your student is, they are probably going to need reminders to practice. It’s a myth that if they loved it, they would practice on their own. It’s like brushing your teeth, taking a shower, or doing homework. Even I have trouble motivating myself to practice! If you need help coming up with a practice plan, just ask!