Pianoforte Academy policies
1. Private Lessons
The foundation of our program is a weekly or twice weekly private lesson. Our lesson length is a minimum of a single 30 minute lesson per week and a maximum of two 60 minute lessons per week.
2. Registration Fee
Pianoforte has no registration fees. Students only cover the cost of their books. We give a free piano bag to registered students.
3. Payment
Monthly tuition is based on 4 weeks of lessons. Payment is due in advance and must be made monthly by the 1st week of the month. We accept cash and check payments only. Checks should be made payable to Pianoforte.
4. Refunds
Piano tuition is not refundable. If you wish to discontinue lessons, written notice must be given 30 days prior to termination. We will provide the remainder of the lessons.
5. Attendance
Regular attendance at lessons is necessary and expected. Private lessons missed due to illness will be rescheduled at the teacher’s convenience. Please give us 24 hours notice if a lesson must be skipped. If you have a conflict due to a required school activity, we will assist you in rearranging your lesson time with 7 days notice.
Make-ups due to student’s absence will be limited to two per semester. In order to minimize absences, students who may have a prolonged conflict with their regular lesson time should request a permanent lesson time change in advance. It is the family/ student’s responsibility to contact the teacher to arrange a make up lesson. Make up lessons must be scheduled and completed within 30 days of the missed lesson. If you have a make up lesson scheduled and you fail to attend, your make up lesson is forfeited. If the teacher misses the lesson, a makeup lesson will be offered to you as soon as possible.
6. Recitals
Recitals are held in the late fall and near the end of the school year. Recitals are usually on Saturday or Sunday. Students are expected to wear appropriate recital attire. There is a recital fee per family.
7. Performance competition
Students are encouraged to attend piano competitions. There are Austin Youth Music Ambassadors, Solo Contest, ADMTA Scholarship Contests and ADMTA festivals as well at UT-Austin every year.
8. Music Theory Test
We recommend having a music theory test. There are spring and fall theory tests at Concordia University every year.
9. Parent-Teacher Communication
Please let us know immediately of any problems you are experiencing. Our goal is to create accomplished, confident musicians. We encourage open and direct communication with your teacher and suggest the most efficient way to do this is by email (ellenum418@gmail.com) or by text (512) 750-9620. We will make every effort to contact you within 24 hours. We can better serve you if we know your concerns.