MY RESPONSIBILITIES:

During lessons, your child will be my student. I will teach each student how to play the violin. I will help them learn techniques, teach them to read music, and give them opportunities to perform. My studio has a positive and enthusiastic environment. I will tailor the curriculum to match each student’s specific learning needs, always seeking to help him/her have the best experience possible. I will communicate expectations and announcements with students and parents via texting and/or emails.

STUDENT AND FAMILY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Students agree to arrive at each lesson punctually, well-prepared, and with their instrument and music. I cannot guarantee results, so improvement is based entirely on at-home practice. If something is happening at home or school that is affecting a student's practice, please let me know.

All students are encouraged to play at the 2-3 recitals we have each year: Spring, Summer, and Christmas.

Parents are always welcome to observe lessons, but it is never required. However, it is highly encouraged to have a parent present for beginning students, especially depending on age.

TUITION:

30 minute in-person lessons: $20

30 minute online lesson: $15

Lessons are billed monthly by adding up the number of lessons that will occur during the month in question, taking into account any holidays or no school days.

There is a discount given for families with multiple children taking lessons.

PAYMENT 

The following are methods in which I accept payment:

-online paymentsts using "Stripe" through my Studio Website (links to pay this way are always on the monthly invoices)

- checks (payable to Sarah Sponseller)

TYPICAL MATERIAL EXPENSES:

Materials Required:

- violin, bow, and case: rent or own (for local South Bend students, Quinlan & Fabish is a good option to rent)

- shoulder rest: can be a formed rest found at a music store or online OR a foam pad held on by rubber bands

- rosin: should be provided in case if you rented

- music stand or designated spot to hold music

- Books:

   Beginner: Suzuki Method Book 1, The Fairfield Fiddle Farm Beginner's Fiddle Book

   Intermediate/Advanced: repertoire will be decided on an individual basis, there may be need to purchase a book on occassion

CANCELLATION POLICY:

Lessons canceled with at least 24 hours advance notice will be rescheduled schedule permitting. If it is not possible to make-up the lesson, credit be given based on circumstance. No refund will be given for no-shows or tardiness.  If you think you will be delayed, please call or text to let me know if you will be coming.

If I cancel for any reason, I will make it up. If I can’t, payment for that particular lesson will be credited back to you.

Should it become necessary for a student to cancel lessons entirely, please be considerate and make me aware. I will be sorry to see you go! Prepaid tuition is non-refundable.

LIABILITY:  

I will do all I can to provide a safe learning environment for my students. Parents will always have direct access to rooms where lessons are being taught.

Should damage occur to my property, a student’s property, a recital venue, or property where lessons occur, all parties involved will be expected to take appropriate responsibility.