Parents - your task is to
encourage and support progress. And give
praise for all good work! A good
timeframe for practice and positive reinforcements are all that is needed. Students should plan to practice each day for
the same amount of time as the weekly lesson length.
Students and parents should set aside a specific time for practice each week so that a minimum of five days of practice is standard. For young students, it is sometimes beneficial to have two short practice times each day - perhaps before and after school or homework. Parents are essential in each lesson, especially for
younger and/or beginner students. As we navigate in our Covid19 world, parents will need to participate in all lessons to help the student along. I will not be able to physically demonstrate things like hand position and breathing and posture. The parent will actually be learning piano or voice at the same time! It is especially important that the parents ensure that siblings who are taking lessons at the same time never engage in competitive conversations with each other. Lessons are very carefully designed for siblings in order to eliminate anything resembling competition. It is best if the parent does not interject or correct the student during the lesson so that I will be able to shape the lesson completely for the student. If behavioral assistance is needed, then I would prefer to work privately with the parent to make a good plan for intervention as needed. We can develop a plan that is mutually helpful for all lessons. Piano students should be ready for
their lesson with clean hands and clipped finger nails! And a pencil! No pens ever for music. Voice students should be ready for
singing. No eating just prior to a
lesson! A bottle or glass of water is
always helpful for singers to bring to lessons. And a pencil for writing instructions and ideas. During normal lesson times, I will not be answering the phone. Please send a text message or leave a voice message and I will make a return phone call when possible or at the end of the lesson day. It is my sincere desire that with my teaching and your support and effort (with encouragement, praise, and structure when needed), we will form an effective team. By working together, we can make music one of the most enjoyable experiences that you or your child will ever have. Music can and will create a positive future for all students! |
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