Policy and Tuition

TUITION FEES

Tuition fees for the month are DUE in advance on the FIRST DAY of the month and considered LATE on the fifteens. 30 min class is $39. You will receive a statement before tuition fees are due. (February tuition will be billed to you on January 25) Tuition fees received on or after the tenth are considered late and are subject to a $15.00 late fee per student. There is a $25.00 fee plus bank charges for checks returned or rejected by your bank. Tuition may be discontinued if all tuition/fees/supplies etc. are not paid by the fifteenth of the month.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a piano in order to start lessons?

Yes, an instrument for practice is essential from the first lesson. An acoustic piano (upright or grand) is the best choice. A digital piano is also fine for beginners, but is not an instrument for long-term study. As comparison, consider taking art lessons but only using pencils. The acoustic piano gives you the full palette of colors for musical expression, providing the most rewarding experience.

What ages/levels do you teach?

We work with students of all ages, levels, and backgrounds.

What is a good age to start?

Typically no earlier than age 5, or kindergarten. A child must have a 30-minute concentration span and should have begun directional tracking (learning to read left-to-right).

Is there an age that is considered “too old” to start?

Children can start at any age, and adults are encouraged to learn music as well. We teach all ages and levels, and students will achieve results no matter what their previous background. Studies show that the brain is more active while making music than with any other activity. This is the best reason to play the piano, no matter what your starting point!

What are your teaching methods?

Our goal is to nurture a love of classical music and maximize each student’s potential regardless of experience level. Just as every child is different, we adjust teaching style to each individual rather than subscribing to any one method of teaching. We emphasize the necessity of reading music and encourage students towards this initial goal as quickly as possible. Once fundamentals are achieved, the possibilities are endless.

Will there be any extra costs?

Students will need to purchase music books along the way, which adds up to approximately $50/year. Students will also need an assignment book and a metronome (although metronome Apps are available for free download). If a student participates in National Piano Teachers Guild auditions , registration fees will be an additional fee.

Do students have performance opportunities?

Yes, students will be able to perform in Studio Recitals for family and friends. There are other opportunities for performance and competition if interested, as well.

What is the level of parental involvement?

Parents are requested to leave during lesson time so that the student can focus his/her attention fully on learning. While occasional observation is fine, experience has shown that students have a very difficult time concentrating when a parent is in attendance.

At home, parents should encourage students’ daily practice.

Can you travel to my home for lessons?

No, piano lessons are only offered in Graham Piano studio.

POLICY

Missed classes

No credit will be given for missed lessons. It is up to students and parents to initiate make up lessons for any absences BEFORE the missed lesson. Make up lessons are dependent on spots being available. As a courtesy to the teacher and students needing make up lessons, please let the studio know of any absences A.S.A.P.

A list of holidays that will not be billed will be mailed at the beginning of the regular year in September and is available at the Studio - these are general regular holidays that try to follow in a loose way the school calendar.

It may be necessary for us to have a qualified substitute teacher for those rare instances when a regular teacher is unavailable.

We require a minimum of 14 days notice should you desire to discontinue classes.

General Studio Rules

1. Please do not bring food, drinks, or gum into the Studio. (The cleaning person has all kinds of stories & stains to show you!!)

2. Please do not bring pets into the Studio. (People with allergies have commented when someone breaks this rule)

3. DAILY PRACTICE IS ENCOURAGED. Beginning students would do well to practice in small amounts every day. Intermediate students should be practicing 30 to 45 minutes per day. Advanced students should be practicing one hour per day. (These are minimums)

5. "PIANO NOTES" is a newsletter of the GRAHAM PIANO STUDIO that contains important information about Studio events as well as extracurricular activities.

PRIVATE CLASSES

30 min weekly $39

Hours

Sunday - no classes
Monday - 2 to 8pm
Tuesday - 2 to 8pm
Wednesday- 2 to 8pm
Thursday - 2 to 8pm
Friday - 2 to 8pm
Saturday - 9 to 1 am