Students are expected to give sufficient time to their piano studies. Playing the piano is a skill that requires consistent daily practice; without it, the student is doomed to failure and is wasting time and money taking lessons. "Failing to prepare is preparing to fail." Each lesson introduces new concepts and skills and the student must be diligent in doing the work required to master the skills. Parents are responsible for making sure their children devote quality and consistent time to practicing. All students are required to play the week's music assignment a minimum of twice daily between lessons. Parents must accept their responsibility in seeing to it that the student does the required practicing. Consistent lack of practicing is grounds for dismissal.

A word about over scheduling:

A student with an already full schedule is going to find consistent practice very difficult or nearly impossible. Children cannot be expected to do well in any one thing if they are overextended. Before signing up for lessons please examine your child's schedule and make sure they have the available time to devote to their piano studies.

Completion of courses

It is expected that the student complete the entire course for which they have registered. If registered for the year long course, beginning in the Fall, it is expected that the student complete the full two semester sequence. It is difficult to fill an empty spot if a student fails to continue. It is common for a student to experience highs and lows during the year. However, it is important to consider that piano lessons develop good work habits and self discipline; important skills that transfer to all areas of life. If a student chooses to discontinue lessons before the completion of the course, notification must be made in writing and payment must be made through the end of the month in which the student wishes to terminate attendance.

Attendance and Punctuality

No make up classes will be provided except in the case of teacher illness. If a student must miss a lesson, it is their responsibility to call for that week's assignment in order to maintain progress with the class. Periodically, new music, not contained in the class materials, may be handed out and it is expected that it be picked up at the studio in a timely manner. Students are expected to show up on time for class. It is extremely disruptive when a student consistently shows up late. Please try to be at least 10 minutes early for each lesson to avoid a late, disruptive entrance. Parents must be responsible for picking students up on time. Please arrive at least 5 minutes before the end of the students class time to insure that the student is not left waiting. Under no circumstances will students be allowed to wait outside the studio for parents to arrive. All students must wait inside.

Tuition and Payments

Total cost of the year long course is $650.00. A non-refundable down payment of $65.00 (which is part of the tuition) is due at the time of registration. This holds a place for the student in a class. The down payment will only be refunded if there is no available space in a class. Choose one of the following payment options:

Cactus Keys no longer accepts cash payments. Only checks or money orders will be accepted.

1.) $65.00 down payment with registration and 1 payment of $585.00 the first week of classes

2.) $65.00 down payment with registration and 2 equal payments of $292.50 (due the first lesson of each semester)

3.) $65.00 down payment with registration and 9 equal monthly installments of $65.00, beginning September 1st

All monthly payments are due at the first of each month. No monthly invoices will be mailed.
A late fee of $10.00 will be assessed on all payments made after the 10th of the month.

Course Materials

The parent will be notified as new materials are handed out to the class so the cost may be added to that month's tuition payment. The books used for the course cost:

Levels 1 through 4- $25.00 per book

Levels 5 through 7 - $27.00 per book

Each book usually lasts one semester. Occasionally, supplementary music will be added to the student's repertoire to provide variety. ie: seasonal music, classics etc. The cost of these materials may be paid for immediately or added to the next month's tuition.

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