Example Studio Policies handout

Here’s a sample of my Studio Policies handout I made during my Piano Pedagogy class at college in 2009. My policies have changed quite a bit over the years since this version, but nevertheless old example might be helpful for formulating your own policies.

Please refrain from copying and using this example as is.  I’ve provided it here to give you ideas and to inspire you to make your own.

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ATTENDANCE: Students are expected to continue lessons for a full academic year (September 1 – June 8). Students are expected to arrive for lessons in a timely manner, with all required materials and music.

SUMMER LESSONS: Lessons are also offered during the summer (June 15 – August 31). Students will have the option of taking weekly or bi-weekly lessons during those weeks.

RECITAL: Students are required to participant in the yearly Spring Recital in April. Once the student is assigned music in January, they are expected to have it fully prepared and memorized by the beginning of April. Other performance opportunities may be available at other times during the year.

MAKEUP LESSONS: An absence due to illness, accident, or family emergency is excused provided the teacher is notified at least 24 hours in advance. Lessons missed due to family vacations are excused provided notification is given a month in advance. It is the student’s responsibility to sign up for a rescheduled lesson time if desired; however, reschedule lessons cannot be guaranteed due to the teacher’s limited availability. Group lessons cannot be rescheduled.

TEACHER ABSENCES: The teacher reserves the right to miss lessons due to illness or professional commitments. The teacher can hire a substitute teacher or reschedule such lessons.

PRACTICE: The piano should be located in a quiet room away from distractions. Students are required to practice a minimum of five days per week and meet the minimum practice time requirement as determined by the teacher.

LESSON TERMINATION: Students may be asked to discontinue lessons at the end of a semester if they have an excess amount of absences or unprepared lessons, at the discretion of the teacher. Lessons may also be terminated for unpaid tuition.

TUITION AND PAYMENT: Tuition during the academic year is $XX.XX for each half-hour lesson. Students have the option of paying weekly tuition (due at the time of the lesson), or paying monthly tuition (due at the first lesson of the month).

Students should notify the teacher of their chosen method of payment at the first lesson. Both cash and personal checks are acceptable. Unexcused absences may not receive credit/reimbursement, at the discretion of the teacher. In the event that that an excused absence occurs, any pre-paid tuition will be applied toward a lesson in the following month. Students are expected to pay for all music books and materials. The teacher reserves the right to raise fees at the beginning of each new teaching year.

PARENT PARTICIPATION: Parents are encouraged to attend and quietly observe lessons once a month if they so desire. Parents are asked to encourage students and to be active participants during piano practice at home.

OFFICE HOURS: The teacher may often be unable to discuss student progress with parents before or after the lesson since other students have lessons at those times. Parents should call or schedule an appointment with the teacher, if they have concerns or questions. The most convenient time to reach the teacher is Monday through Friday from 10:00am to Noon at [phone number]. Email messages ([email address]) are encouraged.