Student/Family Responsibilities

Students agree to arrive at each lesson punctually, well-prepared, and with their books, binders and other materials. To made adequate progress, daily quality practice is a must, and I will assist students in learning how to practice effectively.  I will not be shy in recommending that a student cease lessons if they never practice and our not committed to improving their musicianship.  Never be afraid to ask questions or make suggestions; I'm always open to feedback and constructive criticism, which helps me become a better teacher and improves my methods and pedagogy.

Students agree to take good care of their instruments and equipment. Any problems or concerns about instruments and equipment should be brought to Taylor's attention to ensure that the problem is remedied at once.

If something is happening at home or school that is affecting a student in some way, please let Taylor know. Any special needs or concerns are encouraged to be shared so that Taylor can be sensitive to the needs of each student.

Students must have a quality instrument for lessons and practice at home.  For guitar students, a quality acoustic or electric guitar that is properly sized is required. Guitars are available in 1/2, 3/4 and full-sized options. For ukulele students, Taylor will provide the right kind and size of ukulele. Parents are encouraged to discuss acquiring suitable instruments with Taylor before starting lessons; oftentimes, he will be able to make renting or purchasing an instrument more affordable than if a parents purchased one themselves.

Commitment

When families enroll at Stichka Music Studio, they are reserving their place in the studio for the entire year. Students are also expected to register for a summer session of 4-8 lessons, depending on the summer schedule, but parents can opt out of summer lessons by paying a fee of 25% of summer tuition to reserve their spots in the fall. Taylor knows that summers are busy, but care needs to be taken to protect his time and income that provides for his family. With ever-changing summer schedules, Taylor will provide an open week at the end of the summer session for students to make up as many lessons as needed. To reschedule summer lessons, please try to notify Taylor 48 hours in advance.

Studio Calendar

Spring Session: January - May

• Optional lessons over Spring Break
• No lessons on Memorial Day
• No lessons on Maundy Thursday or Good Friday
• Lessons end around the last full week before school is out--up to teacher discretion
• We may have an optional recital in mid-late May

Summer Session: June - Early August

• 4, 6 or 8 week sessions--up to teacher discretion; based on busyness of summer schedule
• No lessons the 4th of July
• Lesson make-up week for cancelled or rescheduled summer lessons at the end of summer session

Fall Session: September - Mid December

• No lessons on Labor Day
• No lessons Thanksgiving Week
• Lessons end the last full week before Christmas Break

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General Information

Recitals/Performances

Depending upon the business of schedules, we may hold recitals in December and/or May.  In the past, these have been held as a sort of "open mic" recital at a local coffee shop, which provides a laid-back and comfortable atmosphere.  These recitals/performances are optional and up to teacher discretion.

Cancellation Policy

Any lesson that Taylor has to cancel will be made up or a credit will be given.

No payment credit or makeup lessons will be provided for students who miss lessons for any reason, except in extenuating circumstances at the teacher's discretion. A lesson may be rescheduled for a later time during the week, provided that Taylor is notified of the absence at least 24 hours in advance. Please note that, due to the busyness of the studio schedule, there may not be available make-up lesson times.

Students need to try to choose a lesson time in which they feel confident. Please understand that the tuition students pay reserves them an exclusive weekly time in Taylor's schedule. Unlike a doctor or salon, Taylor cannot resell that time nor can he create extra teaching time in which to give lessons.

Taylor understands that, from time to time, students may need to take a break from lessons due to schedule conflicts, extended absences, etc. In order to continue to reserve their current time slot, parents will be required to pay 25% of tuition for each missed lesson until regular attendance is resumed.

Photo & Video Release

From time to time, Taylor would like to use photos and short videos of students to assist with marketing and other initiatives. Many students love to see their pictures and videos posted, and they find it motivating and exciting to think that others want to know what they are learning. During the registration process, please make sure to check "yes" or "no" in the from.  If you check "yes," Stichka Music Studio reserves the right to post photos and videos of students on various internet and print media outlets (studio website, newspapers, studio Facebook page, Youtube, etc.).

Equipment Buyback

Should a student decide to discontinue lessons, Stichka Music Studio is happy to buy back used instruments and equipment. Taylor will note the condition on a case-by-case basis and will make a fair offer to buy back equipment.