I have a BA degree in Music from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, and have been teaching privately since 1994. I have a strong passion for music and take the responsibility of teaching very seriously. My personal goal is to give my students the tools to use their emotions and intellect for discovering the world of music. My focus is on providing a well-rounded musical education, as well as developing the individual student's interests and abilities. Most importantly, I hope to foster a love of music in my students so they will want to continue playing long after lessons have ceased!!

In my studio, the atmosphere is casual and relaxed. My students can expect to have fun while learning! Students will be exposed to a wide variety of musical styles including Classical, jazz, blues, folk, pop, sacred, contemporary, etc. Lessons are tailored to fit the student's individual needs and personal preferences. My teaching emphasis is on beginners ages 7 through adult. If you are interested in lessons, please call to set up a free lesson consultation.

Private lessons are held once per week and are 40 minutes in length. The standard elements that are incorporated into the curriculum of each student include: sightreading, music theory, ear training, technique and artistry, performance skills, composition, rhythmic and melodic dictation, ensemble playing and music appreciation/music history.

Tuition is calculated based on a 36 week year and runs from September through early June. This includes 34 private lessons and 2 Group Performance Classes. The tuition rate remains constant each month, regardless of the number of lessons in that particular month. The studio will follow the Marshfield School District calendar.

Lesson tuition is due monthly at the first lesson of each month, September through May. Please note that there is NO PAYMENT DUE in June.

It is important to remember that monthly tuition covers more than just private lesson time. Tuition also covers lesson preparation time, teaching publications, instructional workshops, the rental of a recital venue, recital awards, reference materials, equipment, teaching aids, materials for the lending library, and all other expenses of running a business. Lesson tuition is non-negotiable, and there are no discounts for multiple members of the same family.

We will have two Group Performance Classes this year. The first will be a “students only” Costume Recital in October and the second will be our “students only” Recital Rehearsal, held the week prior to the June Formal Recital. Performance classes are considered to be mini recitals, but are much less relaxed than the formal recital. Participation in these Performance Classes is mandatory, as it gives students a rare but important opportunity to work on performing in front of their peers. In addition to student performances, there may be a theory or music appreciation discussion if time permits. Performance Classes are 1 hour in length and take the place of that week's private lesson.

Regular attendance is vital to a student's progress, so please make every effort to come at your scheduled lesson time. However, if you do need to cancel a lesson, please give me the courtesy of 24 hours notice so that I make arrangements with my childcare provider.

If you know of a scheduling conflict or a prior engagement for a particular week, it may be possible for you to swap lesson times for that week with another student on the Studio Swap List. If you do arrange a swap with another student, please notify me in advance so I am prepared for your lesson.

Please note that forgotten lessons will not be made up, nor can I give extra time for late arrivals.

Summer lessons will begin on Tuesday, June 5th. Summer lessons are much more flexible to allow for family vacations and are payable on a week to week basis. The rate for individual lessons is $40/lesson. I do not require my students to continue piano lessons during the summer months. However, students who do take summer lessons will be given priority for fall scheduling. The summer can be a wonderful opportunity to study without the outside pressure of school and other activities, and students typically make rapid progress.

At the end of the school year, I will host a June Formal Recital. Participation is optional, though strongly encouraged. Family and friends are invited to attend. This is a formal event, and suitable attire is required. Withdrawal from Lessons

Please give 30-days advanced notice if a student plans to stop taking lessons. Students who withdraw and later wish to return will be put on a waiting list. All books and materials from the lending library must be returned upon lesson termination.

---

As you know, your child will only be as committed as you are. To ensure that you get your money's worth out of piano lessons, I need parents' help to motivate and support students, and to make piano study a productive and enjoyable experience. Please note that your child's interest in piano lessons may not always maintain a steady level. These fluctuations of interest are perfectly normal and should not necessarily signal an end to the musical training of your child.

I sincerely hope that studying music will be a wonderful experience for your child! If you ever have any questions or concerns about lessons, please feel free to contact me at your convenience.