Policies
Health and Safety
The health and well-being of our students and families is a top priority!! We maintain a clean and sanitized studio space, with regular disinfection of keyboards and shared materials. Students showing any signs of illness are asked to stay home and may request an Online Lesson instead. Hand sanitizer is available upon entry, and hand washing is encouraged before and after lessons.
Lesson Schedule
Lessons are scheduled on a weekly basis at a consistent day and time. Regular attendance is essential to maintain steady progress. Your time slot is reserved specifically for you, and I ask that families do their best to honor that commitment throughout the semester.
Practice
Consistent practice is crucial for growth and enjoyment. Students are expected to practice at least 6 days a week, with a duration appropriate to their age and level. Consistent, focused daily practice—especially in the days immediately following a lesson—is far more effective than one or two long sessions. Parents are encouraged to support or sit by young learners during practice to ensure progress.
Summer Session Policy
Summer lessons are offered with flexible scheduling to accommodate travel and other activities. Students are encouraged to continue lessons during the summer to retain skills and avoid regression. Those taking a break may lose their reserved time slot for the fall, as scheduling is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Recitals and Masterclasses
Students will have the opportunity to participate in annual studio recitals as a way to share their progress and build confidence in a supportive performance environment. Recitals are held once a year and will involve a separate participation fee to cover venue and event costs. Throughout the year, optional masterclasses will also be offered, featuring guest artists and professionals from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music (SFCM) and other local musicians. These special events provide valuable insight and inspiration, and pricing will vary depending on the artist and format. Participation in both recitals and masterclasses is highly encouraged as part of a well-rounded musical education.
Cancellation Policy
If you need to cancel a lesson, please provide at least 24 hours' notice. Make-up lessons are offered based on availability and are not guaranteed. No-shows or cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice are not eligible for a make-up or refund.
Teacher Initiated Cancellation
In the rare event that the teacher needs to cancel a lesson due to illness, emergency, or a professional commitment, the teacher will provide as much advance notice as possible. Any lesson cancelled by the teacher will be rescheduled at a mutually convenient time or credited to the next billing cycle. Your time and commitment are valued, and I strive to ensure consistent, high-quality instruction.
Maximum number of Make-up Lessons
A total of three makeup lessons will be allowed each semester. After the three makeup lessons have been used, students will not be able to have a makeup lesson for a cancellation and payments will still be issued.
Use of Photography and Videos
By enrolling in piano lessons, photos and videos may occasionally be taken during lessons, recitals, or studio events for educational or promotional purposes. These may be used on the studio website, social media, or other marketing materials. Student names will never be published without additional permission. If you prefer that your child (or yourself) not be photographed or recorded, please let me know in writing at the time of enrollment. I fully respect and honor all privacy requests.
Termination of Lesson
If circumstances require a student to discontinue lessons mid-year, a one-month notice is required. This allows adequate time to complete lessons and finalize progress. The teacher reserves the right to terminate a student’s enrollment if frequent cancellations, lack of practice, or ongoing scheduling conflicts interfere with consistent progress. If lessons are terminated by the teacher, any unused tuition will be refunded. However, if a student withdraws partway through a month without notice, the remaining tuition for that month will not be refunded.
Waiver of Liability / Indemnification
By enrolling in piano lessons, the student and/or parent or guardian acknowledges that participation is voluntary and assumes all risks associated with lessons and related activities. The teacher is not liable for any injury, illness, or property damage that may occur during in-person lessons or events. The student and/or parent agrees to indemnify and not hold the teacher responsible for any claims, damages, or expenses resulting from participation in the studio. Families are responsible for their own well-being and personal belongings while on or near studio premises.
Nail Care
For the safety and comfort of all students, we kindly ask that fingernails be kept neatly trimmed before each piano lesson. Long nails can interfere with proper hand position, hinder technique development, and may even cause discomfort or accidental injury during keyboard playing. Maintaining short nails ensures that students can play with ease, develop correct finger strength, and avoid scratching themselves or others. Parents, please help younger students with regular nail care to support their musical progress and keep our learning environment safe and focused.