Frequently Asked Questions
This section covers the common questions I get asked
-and a few that might surprise you-
all based on real conversations with students and their families. If you still have unanswered questions after glancing at these, please feel free to reach out to me directly.
What is your teaching philosophy?
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My teaching philosophy focuses on building a strong technical foundation while nurturing musical expression and creativity. I aim to foster a love for music and help students develop discipline, confidence, and joy through learning an instrument.
What ages do you teach, and what age is best to start music lessons?
I teach students of all ages in both cello and piano. Lessons are tailored to meet each student's individual goals, whether it's learning an instrument for the first time or coming back after several years away. For those with very young beginners (roughly ages 3-6), we can discuss if your child is ready for short, focused lessons that revolve around listening skills, posture, and rhythm to gently introduce the instrument.
How long are lessons, and how often do they occur?
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Lessons are typically 30, 45, or 60 minutes long, depending on the student's age and level. Most students take one lesson per week, but additional coaching or practice sessions can be arranged.
Why should I take private lessons if I already have an A in orchestra at school?​
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Having an A in orchestra shows you're meeting class expectations, but private lessons go much deeper. In one-on-one instruction, we focus on your specific technique, musicality, and growth. You get immediate, personalized feedback, and we can address challenges that might be overlooked in a group setting. It's also an opportunity to explore more advanced repertoire, build confidence, and become a more expressive musician overall. Many top students take private lessons in addition to school ensembles as they complement each other very well.
Do I really need to take private lessons if I don't plan on becoming a professional musician?​
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Private lessons are not only for those seeking a music career but also for anyone wanting to boost their confidence, enhance their musical skills, and improve their focus, discipline, and creativity. These attributes contribute to academic achievement and personal growth in every area of life.
Do students need their own instrument?
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Yes, students are expected to have access to their own instrument for practice at home. I'm more than happy to help guide families through the process of selecting or renting a cello or keyboard if needed. For piano students, I have an upright keyboard at home for use during lessons, but it is imperative that the student obtain their own keyboard. Cellists are expected to bring their cello, bow, rosin, and cleaning cloth in a protective case to each scheduled lesson.
How should students prepare for lessons, and how much should they practice?
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Students should come prepared with all materials, an optional notebook for lesson notes, and their instrument. Regular practice during the week outside of the lesson is essential for progress. I provide individualized guidance to help families build healthy practice habits. I hold the same practice expectations as my teachers did before me: for example, if you take thirty-minute lessons, then you are expected to practice daily for thirty minutes. I'll be glad to discuss how to practice efficiently during lessons.
Can parents observe lessons?
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Absolutely. Especially for younger students, parental involvement is encouraged. Observing lessons helps parents guide their child's practice at home.
How do payments work?
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Lessons are billed monthly on an invoice that I send out personally to each student on my schedule. I accept many forms of payment and I try to collect at the beginning of each month or session. Please reach out if you need to discuss payment options with me.
What is your cancellation policy?
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I require at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations or rescheduling. Missed lessons without notice may or may not be refunded or rescheduled, though exceptions can be made for emergencies.
What happens if we arrive late to a lesson?
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Out of respect for all students' time and my own, lessons will end at the scheduled time even if a student arrives late. Exceptions can be made to extend into a time slot that is available but only at my discretion and availability.
What if we need to pause lessons temporarily?
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I understand that schedules can change. If you need to pause lessons, please give as much notice as possible and I'll do my best to accommodate your return based on availability. However, I always encourage consistent lesson participation to support steady progress.
Do you follow a school-year calendar?​
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Generally, yes, I do align with a typical academic calendar, including breaks for holidays. However, I sometimes offer lessons over the scheduled seasonal breaks and major holidays if I am available. For those instances, I usually communicate with the student personally to see if they would like to hold lessons during those times.
Do you offer online lessons?
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Yes, I offer virtual lessons through FaceTime, Zoom, Skype, and other platforms for those students who require a remote option. These lessons are structured just like in-person lessons. Some students use this option if they cannot make a lesson in-person due to appointments or emergencies and schedule an online lesson with me later that day instead of cancelling. Others want feedback right away and use this option to connect with me instead of waiting for their next in-person lesson.
Do you offer lessons in the student's home?
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Currently, I offer lessons at my in-home studio, virtually, or a local school in the district. I may consider in-home lessons on a case-by-case basis, depending on location and availability.