Policies

Blewett Music Studio Policies

Updated 12/30/2021

Orientation

Before starting our Suzuki program, parents must attend an Orientation Session. This ensures that you fully understand the Suzuki philosophy, Studio Policies, and are comfortable with your role as Home Teacher. Suzuki parenting is a rewarding but demanding job. Please read the information provided by the Suzuki Association of the Americas at this link.

Attendance

Lessons canceled due to illness, death in the family, or dangerous weather may be made up with a limit of one per month. If no make up lesson can be scheduled, the cost of the lesson will be credited to the next month with a limit of one per month.

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It is the parent's responsibility to inform the instructor of planned absences such as vacations.

Tuition

Private and group lessons are included in monthly tuition. Tuition is due at the first lesson of the month. Failure to pay may result in discontinuation of lessons. Half hour tuition is $20.00. Semester fee averages $360, payable in monthly installments or in full at the beginning of semester. Fees are determined by how many weekly lessons are in a semester.

Group Lessons and Performances

Group lessons are an essential part of the student's musical development, therefore students are expected to participate in group lesson activities and performances. Group Lessons are held at our studio at 227 Farley Place, The Old Stone Church. Performance opportunities are offered periodically throughout the year at different venues in addition to a Spring and Fall Recital.

Equipment

Students are expected to bring all required equipment and materials to lessons. This includes violin, viola, cello, bow, shoulder rest, rosin, cleaning cloth, all music books, and sheet music provided or requested. (A piano is provided in the studio.) Required home equipment includes quiet location with adequate lighting, folding stand (for string instruments), a home piano for piano students, music, pencil, and requested CD's or music files. When needed, additional strings and other materials may be required. All supplies/equipment can be procured at Symphony Supply in downtown Paducah.

Students of the Blewett Music Studio take weekly private lessons, usually half an hour long. String students attend group lessons with others at the same skill level. These group lesson times are also when regular recitals and events are scheduled. Students are expected to attend all group lessons and performances. Parents should observe lessons and are expected to assist with home practice. Parents are "home teachers" and are expected to become familiar with the Suzuki Method and the instrument.

Please be sure that you fully understand and accept the philosophy and application of the method before committing to lessons. Be certain that you understand the responsibilities and are willing and able to carry them through. This is a long term commitment and the responsibility for the child's success is in large part the parent's. Please be certain you are willing to give a 100% effort.

I. Student responsibilities

A. Cooperate during practice and lessons

B. Wash hands, trim nails, get a drink, go to the bathroom before daily practice and lesson

C. Treat parents and teachers with respect

D. Listen to recording daily

II. Parent responsibilities

A. Pay promptly and in full for all lessons

B. Attend all classes outlined in the program

C. Maintain the instrument in good condition at all times

D. Do not interfere with the lesson, but take notes or record each lesson as directed by the teacher

E. Organize home practice and set daily time aside for that purpose

F. Follow through on all assignments given by the teacher, including practicing the instrument, overseeing specific assignments with the student, etc.

G. Play the recordings daily

III. Teacher responsibilities

A. Be qualified to teach any materials the student receives

B. Be very specific with assignments and expectations for the week

C. Give practice ideas and support to the student and to the parent for each assignment given

D. Make a commitment to continue her education on a regular basis

E. Provide ample opportunities for solos and performances

F. Teach all lessons at the appointed time except for reasons of illness or family emergency