Dear reader...
Welcome to the lesson policies page! Here, you'll find guidelines designed to ensure we have a smooth and enjoyable learning journey together. My goal is simple: I want students of all ages to get the most out of our lessons. To achieve this, I strive to build a personal connection with each student and keep the business side of things as seamless as possible.
You can download a PDF file of these policies by clicking the button below. If you have any comments, questions, or concerns, please feel free to contact me.
Happy reading!
Jacob Evan Robertson
Lessons Description and Content...
Weekly lessons: I offer 30-minute weekly lessons. From the beginning we will focus mostly on the ability to play basic songs and improvise. In addition, we will be studying music theory, music performance, sight-reading, and musical creativity through listening and composition. Throughout the year I will continually evaluate the student’s progress and learning needs and adjust my approach as needed. During all lessons it is requested that everyone present respects the learning space and helps to create an environment conducive to learning. This will help ensure the best experience for everyone, and the best use of your time and money.
Billing Schedule and Methods
Billing Cycle: I will provide an invoice shortly before the last lesson of each month. Payment for each month’s lessons is due at the time of the last lesson of the month. Billing Method: I accept checks, but am open to other methods if needed.
Punctuality
As the instructor, I will always arrive at your home (or lessons studio) at the agreed upon time. At that time the student should also be prepared to begin the lesson very shortly, with any lesson books or materials at the piano. If I arrive late, the lesson will still be a full 30 minutes. If the student arrives late, the lesson will end at the previously scheduled time. It is also suggested that students spend some time prior to the lesson warming up and reviewing material in order to make the lesson more efficient.
Scheduling and Make-up Lessons
Planned Absences: At the start of each month, I will send out the lesson schedule. If you have any planned absences, you can cancel with at least 24 hours' notice and reschedule within the same week, if availability permits. Rescheduling is not guaranteed, but there will be no charge for absences that cannot be rescheduled. Last-Minute Cancellations: Lessons canceled without 24 hours' notice will be charged as if attended.
Learning Materials
Students are responsible for purchasing their own books and other materials as needed. No materials are usually needed for the first few weeks.
Parental Supervision
Parents are encouraged to sit in on lessons if and when they wish to. Parents should also supervise student practice during the week to ensure quantity and quality of practice. A parent or guardian should always accompany minor students to the lesson, whether or not they actually sit in the practice room for the lesson. Younger students should practice for 15 minutes a day, five days per week. It would be even better if the student is at a place where they can practice 30 minutes a day, 7 days per week. It is up to the parent to ultimately decide which of these two options is best for their child, but the teacher will recommend one or the other after evaluating the student. It is understood that there will be days where things get in the way of practice and that is acceptable as long as practice is not regularly missed.
Student Motivation
While older students should be self-motivated, younger students will struggle in this way. It is very important that no one, especially a young student, is ever discouraged or criticized for their practice or performance. While the teacher does have to correct the student, this is done in an encouraging way that doesn’t fail to also highlight areas where improvement is seen. I always tell parents that the best way to improve upon a student’s performance or practice technique is to provide whatever positive feedback possible. This will encourage them to practice more and the teacher will be able to accomplish more with a student who is motivated.