Teaching Style

I offer music tuition through the medium of the piano, and aim to have music-making as the focus of lessons.

Learning is progressive – I follow a scheme of learning called The Piano Framework which covers both musical concepts and pianistic skills in a logical manner.

Each student will be approached individually, and their musical preferences taken into account as much as possible.

Exploration and discovery is encouraged.

I am committed to ongoing personal musical development.

Introduction/Bundles

Learning to play the piano is a long-term commitment for pupil, teacher and parent/guardian.

I offer an ‘introductory’ set of 4 lessons with no obligation to continue.

These are charged at the full rate and are paid at each lesson. This gives both teacher and clients an opportunity to assess if we are ‘a good fit’. After this introduction, lessons may be booked in bundles of 5 at a reduced rate.

Refunds are not possible once a bundle of 5 lessons has been booked.

In the case of illness or other exceptional circumstances, I will offer to reschedule if 24 hours notice is given. Rescheduled lessons will be offered if a time-slot is available within a reasonable period. If no mutually convenient time is available, or if less than 24 hours notice has been given, then the lesson fee is forfeit.

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Lesson rates

Introductory period/PAYG-

Block of 5 lessons-

In the event that I need to cancel a lesson, I will credit the fee towards the next bundle of lessons, or offer a refund.

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Tuition includes

Individual lessons with student.

Preparation and planning time for lessons.

Any performance opportunities, pupil concerts, etc.

My membership of professional organisations with public liability insurance.

Stationery and photocopying.

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Exclusions

Music books, tutor books and other published learning materials (other than from my loan library).

Entry fees for music exams.

Studio Policy

I will:

• Be punctual in beginning and ending lessons.
• Provide an appropriate teaching environment for students, with a regularly tuned piano.

I ask that students:

• Do the necessary preparation at home that has been agreed during the lesson.
• Attend lessons punctually and bring all relevant books.
• Respect my piano and teaching room.

I ask that parents/guardians:

• Help their child establish and maintain a practice routine by setting a regular , specified practice time.
• Provide a quiet, comfortable and distraction-free zone for the duration of the practice.
• Provide the necessary equipment: a tuned piano or full-sized digital piano/keyboard with weighted keys and pedal; adjustable stool or chair of appropriate height; purchase of recommended music books.
• Encourage a positive attitude to learning and playing the piano.
• Report any problems encountered during the week.
• Adhere to drop-off and pick-up times as agreed.

Recording permission

As part of my ongoing process of professional development, occasionally I may record a lesson in order to monitor my teaching for self-assessment and reflective practice. This will be for my personal use only, and will not be published online or social media. I will always inform the pupil (and parent/guardian where appropriate) and request the permission of both before recording. In turn, I expect clients/families to respect the privacy of the teaching room and refrain from recording or taking photographs during lessons without my permission.