Policies & Pricing

Please read all policies thoroughly. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out before enrolling. Upon enrollment, you will receive a printed copy of this handbook. By signing the studio policy, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to the terms outlined below.

Student Expectations

A successful lesson begins with consistent, thoughtful preparation throughout the week. Students are expected to:

Practice daily as assigned.
Arrive on time and ready to play.
Bring all necessary materials to each lesson, including:
- Properly sized cello and bow
- Method books or sheet music
- Listening assignments or handouts
- Chair (for younger students, if needed)

Parent Expectations

For young or beginner students, a parent or guardian must attend each lesson. You serve as the home teacher during the week and should fully understand the material covered. Please bring a notebook to jot down assignments and instructions, and feel free to ask questions during the lesson—don’t wait until you're home and unsure.

If questions arise mid-week, you are welcome to message me. I will respond as promptly as possible, typically by the next business day. Older or more advanced students may attend lessons independently if they are progressing well. However, if I observe a decline in progress, I may request that a parent attend again. Parents are always welcome to sit in on lessons, and I encourage you to occasionally observe your student’s progress.

Practice

Daily practice is essential for growth. Every lesson builds on the last, and without regular practice, progress slows significantly. Practice should be scheduled like any other homework or commitment.I recommend choosing a time each day when your student is focused and cooperative. On busy days, even 10–20 minutes can make a meaningful difference.

General Rule of Thumb: A 30-minute lesson = 30 minutes of daily practice, 5–6 days per week.

Listening to assigned recordings and following along in the music is a vital part of practice. It helps students absorb rhythm, phrasing, and tone, even when not playing the instrument.

When practicing with your student:

Offer encouragement and stay positive.
Avoid criticism; instead, celebrate effort and improvement.

Accountability: If regular practice is not maintained over multiple weeks, lessons may be paused.

You will receive a written warning and time to adjust practice habits.
Continued lack of practice may result in suspension or dismissal from the studio.

Make up Lesson Policy

Lessons canceled with less than 24 hours’ notice will not be rescheduled or refunded—please do not ask. Make-up lessons are not guaranteed for student absences.

Frequent cancellations or no-shows may affect your placement in the studio.

Exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Transferring Teachers & Studio Withdrawals

Choosing a music teacher is an important decision, and I fully understand that over time, a family’s needs, goals, or circumstances may change. If you are considering transferring to a different teacher or studio, I kindly ask that you communicate your intentions directly with me. Transparency and open dialogue ensure a smooth transition for your student and a respectful end to our time together.

Studio Withdrawal Notice

If you choose to discontinue lessons for any reason, I require at least two weeks' notice. This time allows us to wrap up the student’s current material thoughtfully, provide any necessary resources for the next steps, and—if needed—help refer you to another teacher.

Communication is Key

If you’re feeling uncertain about your student’s progress, your experience in the studio, or the overall fit between teacher and student, I encourage you to reach out. Many concerns—such as practice habits, motivation, lesson pacing, or scheduling—can often be addressed through open and honest conversation. I am always willing to listen and work with families to find a solution. Whether that means adjusting our approach, re-evaluating goals, or creating a plan moving forward, I am here to support your child’s success.

As your teacher, I want your child’s musical journey to be positive and productive, and I value your feedback. Open communication allows me to better support your student and tailor lessons to meet their unique needs. Often, even a small change can make a meaningful difference in a student’s engagement and progress.

Please don’t hesitate to bring up any questions or concerns—your voice matters in your child’s music education.

A Note on Quiet Transfers

While I understand that it can be uncomfortable to share concerns directly, it’s important to avoid switching teachers without notifying me. Doing so can leave musical progress unresolved and may cause unnecessary confusion for the student. Clear communication also models honesty and respect for young musicians as they learn the value of professional relationships.Whether your student continues in this studio or finds success elsewhere, my hope is that they will carry with them a love for music and the confidence they gained through cello study. I am always here to support them in that process, wherever it leads.

Payment

Tuition can be paid monthly or per individual lesson. It includes:

Weekly private lessons
Email or text support between lessons (responses within one business day)
Printed music and parent handbooks
Supplemental resources and practice kits (if applicable)
Practice Videos and supplementary online resources.

Semester Rates (16 Lessons):

30-minute lessons: $560 per semester ($35 per lesson)
45-minute lessons: $880 per semester / ($55 per lesson)

Individual Lessons:

30-minute lesson: $40

Payment Policies:

Individual lesson payment is due at the lesson. Late payments incur a $5 fee.
Monthly payments are due by the second week of the month. After that, you will be charged the individual lesson rate.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

Cash or check
Venmo coming soon

Zoom Lessons

Zoom is a convenient alternative when traveling or living outside the area. These lessons are scheduled like regular in-person sessions.

Requirements:

Reliable internet connection
Device with a microphone (external mic preferred)

Zoom Rate:

$25 for 30 minutes

Lesson & Recital Etiquette

Lessons:

Please do not arrive more than 10 minutes early.
If a lesson ends early, it could mean:
1. You've completed your goals—great progress!
2. Lack of preparation—this will be addressed.
Late arrivals will not extend your lesson time.
Bring all materials (music, instrument, bow).
- If essential items are forgotten, the lesson may be canceled without refund.
Silence all electronic devices.
Siblings or guests must remain seated and quiet during the lesson.

Recitals & Performances:

Attire: Business or church-formal
- Skirts must fall below the knee (they rise when seated to play)
- Black slacks or khakis (no black jeans)
- Tucked-in shirts preferred
- No gym shoes; wear black dress shoes or sandals
Arrive 15 minutes early to all performances

Food and Beverages

No eating or snacking during lessons
Bottled water is allowed\

Illness & COVID Policy

If you or your student are feeling unwell or show symptoms, please reschedule. I will do my best to find a new time. You may request to wear a mask or ask me to wear one at any time.