Studio Policy

MARINA GRUDSKAYA’S PIANO STUDIO POLICY 2019/20

MY OBJECTIVES

• I will teach the language of music as a means of self-expression.
• Lessons will encompass music theory, history, piano technique, musicianship, interpretation, – and    performance of piano literature.
• Beginners will get acquainted with the keyboard, gain an awareness of relaxation and arm weight, learn  proper playing habits, and cultivate their technique.
• Intermediate/advanced students will refine their playing habits, expand their repertoire, develop  freedom in their playing, and build the tools to express themselves through music.
• I will tailor the curriculum to match the student’s learning needs
• I will organize a yearly studio recital, in which students will perform in a nurturing, supportive  environment.

EXPECTATIONS FOR STUDENTS

• Arrive to lessons punctually and well-prepared, with all books and completed theory assignments.
• Practice at least 5 times per week. Like learning a foreign language, music requires steady development,  so practice-cramming before a lesson is not productive. To make good progress, spread practicing  through daily quality sessions during the week, doing a little at a time.
• Keep fingernails trimmed short to ensure proper hand position and good technique.
• Participate in yearly performances.

EXPECTATIONS FOR PARENTS

• Set aside a designated practice time for your child.
• Supervise home practice sessions to make sure your child completes each assignment. Many children are   not mature or disciplined enough to manage practicing without your support.
• Have a piano, foot pedal and a bench at proper height in your home. A piano is strongly recommended as nothing can take the place of its touch and sound. The  piano should be located in a well-lit place that allows practicing to be done with as few distractions as  possible (TV and other siblings). Please keep it and the surrounding area clean.
• Your encouragement and praise will be essential to your child’s success.

RESCHEDULING POLICY

• Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Whenever possible, please let me know of  absences well in advance. Each student is permitted one make-up lesson per month if notification was given in advance. Any other missed  classes will be forfeited.
• Each student is guaranteed his/her regular scheduled lesson each week unless the teacher is severely ill. Lessons cancelled by the teacher will be  rescheduled or credit will be given.
• There are two emergency cancellations of a lesson allowed per year in case of an emergency like sudden illness or others. In that case a lesson will be rescheduled.

OBTAINING BOOKS AND OTHER NECESSARY SUPPLIES

• Lesson Books: Obtaining of the materials for the lessons is responsibility of a student and his/her parents. The teacher will let you know which books needed to be purchased and give you suggestions where to obtain  them (a website or store).
• Metronome: If you do not already own one, you will need to purchase a metronome or download a  metronome app.
• Practice Journal/Assignment Book: I will be writing detailed assignments and weekly goals for each student.

TUITION

• Tuition is charged by semesters and is non-refundable. Invoices will be sent by email. Payment may be  made by check or cash and is due by the 1st lesson of the semester. A late payment penalty of $25 will be  assessed for tuition not received by the 10th of the first month.
  A fee of $25 will be charged for returned checks.
• Tuition is based on enrollment, not attendance, and reserves the student’s lesson time throughout the  year. Please reserve and prioritize this time in your family’s schedule.
• Extra lessons before a competitions or exams are paid separately.

Tuition covers not only the actual lesson time spent with the student, but time preparing for each student   as well. This includes:

• An individualized plan for each student’s course of study
• Studio Piano Classes that will occur several times throughout the year
• Written progress reports for each child at least once a year
• Development of teaching materials
• Training and experience
• Recital preparation and repertoire planning

TERMINATION OF SERVICES POLICY

• The instructor reserves the right to terminate lessons. Any violation of this studio policy, disrespectful  behavior, and failure to complete assignments and prepare for lessons during the week are possible  motivators for discontinuing lessons.
• If you choose to discontinue lessons, you must give at least one month notice before the beginning of a new semester. I will do the same.

CONTACT INFORMATION

I am happy to discuss the student’s progress and any other issues via email or phone.
phone: 510-703-6826
email: mlgrudsky@gmail.com
website: marinagrudskaya.com

ADHERENCE STATEMENT

This studio policy is a legal contract made between Marina Grudskaya, Student
and Parent, on this date for the provision of private music instruction services to
Student.
I, ____________________________, have received, read and understand the
above guidelines pertaining to music lessons with Marina Grudskaya and agree to
abide by its provisions, as a condition to Teacher providing music lessons to
Student.
______________________________________________________________
Student(s) signature Date
________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian signature Date