What days/times can I take lessons?

Lessons are usually on Saturday and are held at Uptown Music on River Road between 9am and 6pm. If early morning or evening during the week would be better for you and your family, we can discuss those options individually.

I would like to listen to my child’s lessons- can I come, too?

Parents are especially encouraged to attend the first lesson where we meet each other and are welcome to come to all lessons with their child.  If parents regularly attend lessons, I ask that they be a “fly on the wall” and not interfere or interrupt the lesson.

My mom wants to come to my lesson but I don’t want her there. Is there anything you can do?

As your teacher, I can make recommendations to your parents about your maturity to handle lesson situations on your own. Parents are always welcome to observe, but if there is a conflict, I will do my best to mediate.

What if I forget my music or instrument for the lesson?

Without the right tools, it’s difficult to have an effective lesson. We will make decisions on a case-by-case basis and may end up canceling the lesson (without a  refund).

What if I have another event at the same time as my lesson?

Hopefully, you will schedule a lesson time that will remain consistent. However, schedules can sometimes change (seasonal sports, vacations, etc.) You must give me notice of your lesson cancellation 24 hours in advance so we may reschedule. If it is convenient to reschedule for another lesson during the same week, we will make it up. If we can not make up the lesson during the same calendar week, the lesson fee is forfeited and you will not receive a refund (extended vacations are different and will be dealt with individually).

If you know there will be multiple events during your lesson time, we will reschedule your regular lesson to a better day or time for you.

What if I forget about my lesson and don’t show up?

If you don’t come to your lesson without giving me notice the day before, you will not receive a refund for the lesson and will be charged as if you had attended the lesson. Repeated lesson-skipping will not be tolerated and you will be dropped.

What if I get sick?

I will still expect notice the day before. If you go to school the day of the lesson, I expect you to be at your lesson. If you have an emergency illness, please call me ASAP to let me know. I understand if there is an emergency and you are not able to call me. If your illness lasts for an entire week or more, you should see a doctor! (All serious illnesses will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.)

How much am I expected to practice?

You decide! Together, we set musical goals and determine how much practice it will take to achieve them. Then, you set a schedule for yourself. If you’re not making progress toward your goals, we’ll evaluate your practicing to make it more effective (this may mean changing how, what, when, where, and why you practice).

Do we have recitals or performances?

Yes we do. Music is a performance art, so we will be preparing for a recital every few months. Your recital performance may include music from your regular lessons as well as popular music of your choice.