Lesson objectives, requirements, and general expectations
The desire to better one’s self at any musical instrument requires much practice, diligence, keeping an open mind, and realizing that you may get worse before you get better.Below are a few concepts that may answer some of your questions, as well as, give you a feel as to how private music lessons are taught.
Studio Expectations
Lesson Objectives:
The goal for each lesson is for the student to learn at least one new concept or to achieve a much better understanding of an existing concept and have fun doing in the process!
General Expectations & Guidelines:
Each student will be required to practice. If you are serious about learning your instrument then this should be a given. Each individual’s practice will be determined by skill level and will more than likely increase with skill progression. Please keep in mind that each student may be asked to practice a minimum of 20-30 minutes every day. Lesson time is not considered practice time. Each student is required to keep accurate track of practice using the “practice log” available after signing in on Music Teacher's Helper. Practice forgery will be recognized and evident in your performance and ability to produce the desired result of which you were assigned.Any student who does not practice on a habitual basis will be removed from the studio.A warning letter will be written, and if not-practicing still stays an issue then a 2 week notice will be written of the student’s removal date.Lack of practice equals a waste of our time and the student’s money.
Requirements:
Appropriate method books
Appropriate Etude Studies for your instrument
Appropriate Solos for your instrument
Your school band book (probably Essential Elements 2000)
All of your Concert Band Literature
Other things you will need to bring to each lesson:
A positive attitude and a mind that is open and willing to learn!
1 – 70-100 sheet college-ruled notebook
1 Mechanical Pencil
1 OrangeorPink Highlighter
Students will have homework! Please be prepared to study and complete assignments when they are due. Students will never be asked to do more work other than which they are capable, and there may be times when more homework is assigned than others. Time spent on homework is NOT considered practice! Please keep in mind that the amount of time I get with students is limited and homework is a great way to help expand and perfect skills and knowledge!
In addition, students MUST bring their lessons notebook, mechanical pencil, highlighter, and all other materials specified in the studio information packet that each student receives. These materials are crucial in assisting achievement and proficiency!
During lessons:
Interruptions are not tolerated, except in the case of an emergency. This is to help us stay focused, as well as, assists us in respecting and appreciating our time together.
- Cell phones will be off or on silent.
- Bottled water is the only drink acceptable during lessons.
- Restroom breaks are a poor use of our time, however, in the case of an emergency shall be permitted.
Payment:
Payment for the month is due on the 1st of the month, and will be considered late after the 5th. Payment may be given directly to me, or mailed with a post date no later than the 5th. If your payment is mailed, it must be personal check or money order made out to Jay Durham (CASH is UNSAFE to mail.)
Please note: Upon a late payment, a $10 charge will be added to your account unless other arrangements have been made prior to the 1st. A $25 service charge will be added to your account if your check is returned for any reason.
Photography Consent Terms and Conditions:
- Photography will more than likely be a scheduled event that parents and students will be aware is taking place, however, it is possible that it may happen without much or any notice.
- Photography may be used on studio websites, printed publications, mailers, and for any other promotional or advertising content Jay Durham wishes to use such materials, in which, shall be used for Jay Durham Music Studios use only.
Cancelation Policy:
Although cancelations are highly discouraged, I do understand that life deals its unfair share of emergencies and unexpected issues. It is only courteous to give a 24 hour notice that students will be missing a lesson.
- If a 24 hour notice is given, there may be the possibility of rescheduling the lesson if studio time permits. However, I will allow only one reschedule per calendar quarter.
- Missed lessons and/or cancelations will not result in a credit to your account.
- It is my practice that I provide 24 hour cancelation notice, in which case your lesson cost will be credited to your studio account.