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 Piano Lessons: I offer 30-minute weekly lessons with an early focus on learning the fundamentals needed for playing songs and improvising. We'll also cover music theory, sight-reading, performance, creative skills like listening and composition, etc. I’ll adjust lessons as needed to fit each student’s progress and learning style. If you’re sitting in during a lesson, please help keep the space focused and distraction-free for the best learning experience. Let’s make the most of your time and investment!
Billing Schedule and Payment Methods
Billing Options: You can choose to pay either monthly or by semester. Most families start with monthly billing, then switch to semester billing once they’ve had a good month or two. I’ll send monthly invoices before the last lesson of each month, with payment due at that lesson. I accept checks but can work with other payment methods if needed!
Punctuality
Please arrive on time for lessons with all necessary materials ready to go. Lessons will begin at the scheduled time and will end as planned, even if the student arrives late. Remember, consistent practice during the week is the best way to get the most value out of our time together!
Scheduling and Make-up Lessons
When you sign up, I'll provide a lesson schedule covering the entire period you've paid for, whether it's a month or a full semester. If extenuating circumstances arise and you need to miss a lesson, please notify me as soon as possible, ideally with at least 24 hours' notice. I’ll do my best to offer a make-up lesson within the same week, but make-ups are not guaranteed. Missed lessons will still be billed as scheduled according to the policy.
Learning Materials
Students are responsible for purchasing their own books and materials as needed. I’ll let you know when something is required, but no materials are usually needed for the first few weeks.
Parental Supervision
Sitting in on Lessons: Parents are welcome to sit in on lessons whenever they wish. A parent or guardian must accompany minor students to their lessons, even if they do not sit in during the lesson. At-Home Practice: Parents should supervise student practice during the week to ensure both the quantity and quality of practice. For younger students, daily practice of 15 minutes, five days a week, is recommended. Ideally, students should aim for 30 minutes a day, 7 days a week. After evaluating the student, I’ll recommend the best practice routine, but ultimately, the parent/guardian should decide what works best for their child. We understand that some days may be missed, but regular practice is essential for progress.
Student Motivation
Student Motivation & Feedback: While older students tend to be self-motivated, younger students may struggle with this. It’s crucial that no student, especially a young one, is ever discouraged or criticized for their practice or performance. Although the teacher will make corrections, these will always be delivered in an encouraging way, while also recognizing areas where improvement has been made. I often tell parents that the best way to help a student improve is to provide as much positive feedback as possible. This encourages them to practice more, allowing the teacher to accomplish more with a motivated student.