Rapture /rap-chur/ n. extreme happiness and delight in something

Studio Policies:

Private Lessons:

Private lessons are held weekly except the week of group lessons.  Lessons for Intermediate and Advanced students are 45 minutes in length, and for Beginner and Elementary students they are 30 minutes in length.  Beginner and Elementary students are students playing out of the method books, typically up to level 3 or 4, depending on the method book.  During these one-on-one lessons piano technique, repertoire, sight-reading, music theory, and some ear-training will be covered.  There is a strong emphasis on technique and theory because I believe that having a strong, solid foundation in these two areas enables students to do much more with their music.  Therefore, if students come to lessons and have not fully completed their theory and technique assignments we may not get to their repertoire pieces.  Parents are invited to attend private lessons whenever they would like.  In addition to weekly private lessons there will be one group lesson each month.  

Group Lessons:

Group Lessons are usually held the first Tuesday of each month and are one hour in length.  In the group lesson will we cover music history, musicianship, performance, ensemble playing, and any other topics that are beneficial to a musician.  The group lesson is included in the tuition.  Please make every effort to be there.

Make-up lessons:

Make-up lessons for private lessons missed during the month will be held the week of group lessons.  This means that only one make-up lesson is available each month.  There is no make-up lesson for missed group lessons.  Parents or students must contact me and schedule a make-up lesson if they would like to have one.

Practice Requirements:

The practice goal each week is to complete the assignment given at the lesson, reguardless of how many minutes a day that takes.  Students should work on their assignment at least five days a week.  During lessons we will focus on how to practice each piece so that practice time will be efficient. I will also help students set daily practice goals to reach so that they can successfully complete their assignment each week.  Parents: please help your child to schedule a regular practice time each day and be sure practicing is done during that time. Please also check to make sure your child is practicing what has been assigned.  Students who repeatedly do not reach the practicing requirement or who do not practice what has been assigned will be invited to find a new teacher.

Tuition:

Beginning/Elementary Students: $65.00 per month (30 minute lessons)
Intermediate/Advanced Students:  $80.00 per month (45 minute lessons)

Tuition is due the first lesson of the month.  There is a $5.00 late fee if a payment is not paid by the second lesson of the month.  Payments can be made by check, AFCU transfer, Venmo or Paypal.

If you wish to take a break from lessons at any time you will still need to pay the monthly tuition to hold your spot if you want to keep it.

A 10% discount is available for students with a parent who has or is serving in the military or is a police officer, firefighter, or paramedic. Thank you for your service!

Please expect a small tuition increase each year or so due to increased cost-of-living expenses.

Recitals and Festivals:

There will be two studio recitals each year, one in the Fall and another in the Spring. Each student is expected to perform in both recitals. Beginner students may perform a duet rather than a solo the first year of lessons.  There are no recital fees.  In addition to recitals, there are several festivals I have had students participate in.  Participation in a festival is not required but it is a good experience.  I encourage students to try one at least once every 2-3 years. 

AIM:

AIM (Achievement in Music) is a statewide program developed by the Utah Music Teachers Association.  It evaluates students in areas of performance, technique, sight-reading, theory, ear-training, and music history.  I strongly encourage all students to enroll in AIM each year; the registration fee is $25 and is due with the January tuition.  There is also a $10 fee for materials I purchase for the students to prepare for the theory and eat-training exams. The AIM testing takes place in the Spring and/or Summer.  For more information about AIM, please visit the UMTA AIM page.

Summer Lessons:

Student are required to continue having lessons at the studio at least two of the three summer months if they want to continue lessons in the Fall.

Parents:

Your involvement is crucial to your child’s success. Please encourage your child in their daily practice. Be positive, show excitement, and take time to listen to them. Please feel free to discuss any questions, concerns, or comments with me at any time. Thank you for this opportunity to teach your child. ♫