​Lessons

Each student receives a lesson in 3 formats:
  1. Daily home lessons with the parent, who is the teacher
  2. Weekly private lessons with me, where both the student and the parent are learners
  3. Group classes with your child’s peers

Lessons lengths are offered in 30, 45, and 60 minute increments based on age or playing ability.
  • 30 min = Beginners through Book1-2
  • 45 min = Book 2-4
  • 60 min = Book 4+
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Missed lessons are not made up.
  • Your Absence - If you must miss a lesson, please try to swap lesson times with someone else. My studio schedule and student contact list will be available for this use. In some cases, remote lessons can be arranged. Please give 24 hrs notice for any absences.
  • My Absence - If I must miss a lesson, I will schedule a makeup lesson.
  • *Illness or injury - Please do not attend lessons or group class if the student or parent has an illness or symptoms. In most cases, remote lessons can be arranged. I cannot *guarantee* a makeup option for illness or injury. 

Group Classes

Group classes are a key ingredient to my Suzuki program. Attendance is very important. In group class, we review and polish our common repertoire, learn ensemble skills, play music theory games, prepare for group performances, and most importantly, learn from our peers. Additionally, we have informal performance opportunities. It builds our community and motivates us as we learn from others. Group classes are scheduled on Monday evenings, 6-7 pm, on a bimonthly basis.

Tuition

Tuition includes private lessons, group classes, and performances throughout the academic year (September - June). Typically, 34 private lessons and 16 group classes will be held. I generally follow the Seattle Public Schools calendar with regard to breaks and studio closures. 

Tuition is billed each semester, due at the first lesson of each semester (Sept, Feb). Monthly payments can be arranged upon request. Payment can be made by cash, check, e-transfer, or paid on my website. I refuse to accept that a student may not be able to study music because of finances. Please reach out to request a scholarship.
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Summer lessons are required to maintain a lesson spot in my studio. They are offered during summer months and are arranged based on mutual availability. The rate is $85/hr, paid by the summer term or on a monthly basis. Students are strongly encouraged to register for the Japan Seattle Suzuki Institute, usually held the first week of August.

There is a $85 registration fee due annually each Fall to cover administrative fees. Please note that tuition will increase every 1-2 years to adjust for inflation.

Practice

Minimum daily home practice should be equivalent to the lesson length, if not more, 6 days a week. The parent partner is always expected to guide the student for pacing and effective practice strategies. Do not schedule other commitments during this practice time. Independent practice will be achieved starting in Book 4, but only after the student and parent have learned and developed effective practice skills.

Listening

I expect each family to listen to their current Suzuki book recording twice daily. How? In the background, in the car, on a device, during meal times, at bedtime, or during homework study. Students who listen regularly learn faster. It is, perhaps, the only shortcut that exists in music study! Once the minimum listening has been achieved, the family is welcome to listen to other genres, more advanced Suzuki book levels, or any music that stimulates happiness. The goal is to create a musical environment!

Parent Partner

Suzuki has said that “children learn to smile from their parents.” In my Suzuki program, I work very closely with the parents to teach them how to assist their children at home. In the initial stages, this is very hands-on. Parent participation is vital! It is your responsibility to foster a musical environment at home by listening to the Suzuki recording, preparing the practice schedule and study space, obtaining needed supplies, and communicating with me frequently so we can work together to improve and enjoy the process. It is a cooperative effort!

Performances

Solo and group performances are the milestones of our musical journey. Attendance is required. I expect you to support our community of cellists with positive attitudes and commitment to these important events. Each semester we will have a formal solo and group performance in addition to informal performance classes.