Policies

Voice lessons for teens and adults in McLean VA

Studio Policies and Student Responsibilities

Please arrive at the studio on time. If you are early, please wait outside or in your car.
If you need to come in to use the restroom, please feel free to do so, and then either go back outside or sit quietly.
You do not need to knock on the door before you enter. Come in at your scheduled lesson time.
You are welcome to go into the restroom to get water so you can sip during your lesson.

Please use your smartphone or a digital recorder to record your lessons so that you can listen to them throughout the week as you practice.
If you do not have a digital recording device, you may bring a blank cassette tape to use with my tape cassette recorder.

We will study two songs a week — approximately 10 songs per each school quarter.
Music books, sheet music, and accompaniment CDs can be purchased from me. I will advise students of the cost as lessons progress.
For your convenience, I will photocopy some assigned music. The charge is 10 cents per page. Please bring change to the lessons.

I expect students to participate in two recitals and two workshops during the year.
Students must attend as either a performer or as part of the audience.
Workshops will be held in my home and are for students only (parents, etc., do not attend). They are designed to help you prepare for future performances.
A fee will be charged for the workshops and recitals to cover the cost of the accompanist, and the cost of the hall rental for recitals. The fee will be announced prior to the event and can be included with the monthly lesson payment.

Students are encouraged to enter vocal competitions and adjudications, as well as to audition for district, state, and regional honors choruses.
These activities are optional, and at times I will recommend that some of my students participate.
Current and previous student achievements are listed on the Achievements page.

Read and follow the voice care tips provided on my Vocal Health page.
Try to practice at least 15 minutes a day, preferably when you are rested and when you can concentrate on proper alignment, breathing, and a relaxed jaw.
When you are singing in school choirs, think as if you are using this time to establish good vocal habits — thoughtful and not too loud singing.
Be respectful of your vocal instrument — no screaming, and not too much talking on the telephone.
Drink lots of water all day.

Payment shall be made by the month in advance for the number of weeks in which lessons will be given. Scholarships are available.
Credit for missed lesson shall be arranged, provided 24 hours' notice is given, for lessons missed because of student illness, student out of town, or family emergencies.
A fee will be charged for the workshops and recitals to cover the cost of the accompanist, and the cost of the hall rental for recitals. The fee will be announced prior to the event and can be included with the monthly lesson payment.