Piano Lessons

I offer private piano lessons at my home studio in Manhattan, Kansas.

Schedule

My studio operates year-round and weekly lessons are taught when school is in session. No lessons are taught during Thanksgiving and Winter breaks. Scheduling of lessons during other breaks and school holidays are on a flexible basis. Students are expected to take a minimum of six lessons during the summer to save a space in my studio for the fall, and receive a priority in scheduling lessons during the regular school year. Students who do not take lessons in the summer will regress and have to spend time reviewing in the fall.

Students are expected to be punctual for lessons. Late students will not receive extended lessons.

• Missed lessons without 24 hour notice will not be made up. In the event a lesson must be missed (e.g., illness or death in the family), please call as soon as possible and a makeup lesson will be scheduled at a mutually convenient time.
• There will be no makeup lessons of rescheduled lessons.
• If the teacher cancels a lesson, a makeup lesson will be scheduled.

Fees

Please contact me for the fee schedule.

• Fees for the month are paid in advance, due at the first lesson of the month and are non-refundable.
• Late payment past the 7th of the month is subject to a late fee of $20.
• A fee of $15 will be charged for a returned check.
• All new students will pay a deposit worth two lessons. Two weeks’ notice is requested in case of a decision to discontinue lessons.
• Additional lessons beyond the usual scheduled weekly lesson will incur additional fees.

What tuition covers:

• An individualized plan for each student’s course of study.
• My time in preparing for students’ recitals, and selecting and preparing their repertoire.

What tuition does not cover:

• Fees to participate in festivals, recitals, tests and contests.
• Music books, metronome and materials. Parents will reimburse me for music books that I purchase for their child.

What is expected of students and their parents

• Parents are responsible for providing their child with a well-tuned piano with a suitable bench in a well-lit location, free from distraction.
• Children will typically progress the best and faster if they practice on an acoustic piano. However, if circumstances are such that a student has to start lessons practicing on a keyboard, the purchase of a piano should be considered as soon as feasible.
• Regular practice will help ensure steady progress. Parents should encourage and help their child set a definite time for daily practice.
• Parents are welcome to observe lessons whenever they desire but are asked to refrain from making comments during the lesson so as not to distract the child.
• Communication is very important to me – parents should not hesitate to call and discuss any concerns regarding their child’s lessons and progress. It is important that I am sensitive to your child’s needs.

Performances and other activities

• My students are eligible to participate in festivals, recitals, tests and contests sponsored by the Manhattan Area Music Teachers Association.
• These will be discussed with the student and their parents, and the decision to participate will depend on the readiness and suitability of each student.
• Performing in public develops poise and confidence, giving the student a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment while providing a goal for practicing.