Friend of Music Piano Studio Policies

 Group Lessons

• One week in each piano term (Fall—Winter—Spring) we have a group lesson, instead of private lessons for that week. These encourage musical collaboration and provide opportunities for informal class coaching, relaxed performances, music games, and fun.
• Group lessons meet 4:30–6:00 p.m. 

• Students should come with a favorite piece to play for the class, and a finger-food snack to share. Juice is provided.

Recitals

• We celebrate our progress together twice a year –– in December, and in late May or early June. Students are encouraged to memorize their repertoire for recitals. Recitals, held in a nearby church or piano store Recital Hall, are a special opportunity to demonstrate accomplishments in a supportive environment.  
• Our 2024 Christmas Recital will be at GracePointe Church in Milwaukie on Sunday, December 8 at 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. Potluck refreshments following at our studio!

Practicing

• All students are expected to practice a minimum of five days a week for the time suggested on our practice guide, according to their level of advancement.
• When preparing for a recital, or competition or exam, extra practice time may needed.

Lesson Observation

• Parents, you are always welcome to observe your child’s lessons. Students benefit from parental involvement and can be better guided at home during practice time if a parent has observed the lesson. Parents of children under the age of ten are strongly encouraged to observe weekly lessons.
• Please be considerate of teacher and student by reserving comments or judgment during the lesson. Please ask me if you have questions about the assignments!
 Phone calls need to be taken outside, so as not to distract the student’s attention.
• Siblings may attend if under close supervision, and if they are not a distraction.

Student Responsibilities

• Students are expected to arrive promptly for lessons with all musical materials and assignment book; prepare for lessons with daily practice; put forth their best effort during lessons; and practice regularly.

Materials & Equipment

• I will assign appropriate music books, workbooks and, occasionally, sheet music, which will need to be paid for the week after the student receives it.
• A well-tuned acoustic piano in good condition, or an 88–key digital piano with weighted keys, must be available for daily practice.

Piano Festivals & Competitions

• I support and encourage students who are interested in musical competitions, such as local or state OMTA Festivals, Talent Shows, etc., to play in these when possible. Students desiring to compete may enroll in festivals if they are well prepared.
 I do not require students to participate in competitions.
• OMTA Festivals are opportunities to accumulate points and earn trophies!
 Trophies earned are handed out at our Spring Recital. Every 10 (OMTA) performances earns a trophy.
• Studio Trophy –– Every student is encouraged to set goals chosen from a list of learning activities and playing projects. Complete any 10 items on the list to receive a beautiful music trophy at the Spring Recital.

OMTA Syllabus (graded exams)

• As a member of Oregon Music Teachers Association, I offer preparation for Syllabus exams for students who are interested.
• Students prepare over several months, and may sign up for Syllabus if they are well prepared a month before an exam.
• Syllabus may be taken in the fall or spring.
• Fees vary, depending on a student’s level. If interested, ask for more information!

I am excited to begin working together to make beautiful music, and I hope you are too!