Studio Policy and Commitment Contract
2023 - 2024   

Covid-19 Procedures

My students' physical, mental, and emotional safety and health is very important to me. As I have debated how to teach piano lessons in this world that we are all currently living in, I have decided to continue teaching lessons in-person at my home studio. All students will wash their hands with soap when arriving (as is our normal protocol) and I strongly encourage hand washing when leaving, as well. I will also have hand sanitizer available if that is easier for the student's exit strategy. Masks are not required, but I am happy to wear one at the student's request. Online lessons are also available by request.

If you are feeling sick (sore throat, cold, fever, etc) please do not come to your piano lesson in person. Please notify me ahead of time and I will call you via Google, Facetime, or Zoom (whichever is your preference) and we will do your lesson online. If you would prefer to try to swap lesson times with someone, please use the swap list and contact them directly (names and schedule are listed on this website; for a list of phone numbers and emails, please contact me). I will not be offering make-up lessons.

What you can expect

Learning to play the piano is much more than reading a piece of music. In our time together we will not only be learning notes and rhythms, but how to make a piece of music truly musical. We will develop the ear by singing, playing “by ear,” and listening to recordings. We will learn about the history of music, how to play using chord charts (instead of written notes), and how to compose or improvise your own music.  Ultimately, our goal is to enjoy the music we make, no matter what type.

At lesson time

Students are expected to be prepared when coming to lessons each week. This preparation consists of showing up on time, bringing the necessary materials (notebook, piano books, practice schedule, and any other materials), and putting in sufficient practice time throughout the week. Make sure your fingernails are clipped (or you will be clipping them in the lesson), and your hands are clean (please wash them with soap and water immediately before beginning your lesson to prevent spreading germs).

Practice Time

At the beginning of each lesson we will discuss how practicing went the previous week and will decide upon a length of acceptable practice for the coming week. Most students will be required to keep a record of his/her practice throughout the week. Although the precise amount of time may differ, a student is generally expected to practice a minimum of four to five days each week, completing each weekly assignment, no matter how large or small.

Parents are a key aspect to making practice-time a productive time. A parent must be supportive and encouraging of the student and make certain that he/she is practicing. This will often take the form of daily reminders, placing the importance of practicing right alongside homework. Although families handle practicing in different ways, a scheduled routine is successful for most students. Try practicing at the same time each day: before leaving for school, after getting home from school, or just after dinner seem to be times that work well for students. Please make it a priority in your household.

Performing Experience

Performance opportunities are essential for students to develop stage presence, self-confidence, and the desire and ability to share their music-making with others. I strongly encourage students to take every opportunity to perform in front of others. Some students thrive on performances; for others, they have some very real fears to overcome. I am so proud of each and every student who courageously places their musical performance in front of others. Please place the following dates on your family calendar:

Materials Fee

At the beginning of the year each student will pay $50 on top of tuition to cover expenses such as music books, hands-on learning tools, composition books, etc. This is a non-refundable annual fee. I will then provide all materials the student will need throughout the year. Parents will not be surprised with any unexpected fees, unless they choose to become involved in contests or festivals as the student becomes more advanced and will, therefore need to pay registration fees.

Tuition

All monthly payments remain the same each month, even if the months do not have the same number of lessons. A students' weekly lesson, as well as their group lessons are included in this monthly tuition. Payments are due by the 10^th of each month. Please make your check out to Green Grass Music or pay through Venmo (@Melissa-Barker-36).

Make-up Policy

At the beginning of each year, I will hand out a “swap list” with everyone’s names, contact info, and lesson times listed. In the case of absences, a student (or parent) may call or email another student to swap lesson times OR a student may request an online lesson at his/her normal lesson time (via Skype, Facetime, or Zoom). If it does not work to swap lesson times or do an online lesson, the student forfeits his/her lesson for the week. If I miss a lesson due to illness or emergency, I will make-up the lesson or credit that lesson to your next month’s bill.

Year-long Calendar

I have read and understood everything in the studio policy and agree to the policies therein.

Parent signature: ____________________________ Date: ________________________

I understand the importance of the statements above and commit to practicing the minimum of 4 - 5 days weekly, completing each weekly assignment, performing at least twice yearly, and coming prepared to each lesson. I also understand that if I am unable to meet these commitments, a probationary period of time may be instated and if no change is evident, lessons may be terminated.

Student signature: ___________________________ Date: ________________________