To our new parents, and a review for the "old" ones

We are so excited to see so many bright and eager young beginners. We know that you must have many questions as to what this year will bring. This is to provide you with some information about what to expect and maybe a few words of wisdom...

How much practice is required? This depends on how well your child practices, but as a general rule, try to aim for 5 days a week. If you can help your child practice, that’s ideal.. It is especially helpful to practice with them the first couple of days after they get their assignment; after that, they can probably practice on their own, perhaps within earshot.

At first your child will probably be practicing 5-10 minutes a day. I always say: "Practice
each piece 3 times in a row. Then go on to the next piece." The pieces are short. Often we
will encourage kids to count or chant rhythm on  "ta" while they play or before singing, which helps with rhythmic accuracy. For piano, singing the words while playing may help some students. We ask that our students reread their assignments when they practice, and to mark their practice log since it is the only visible thing the teacher has to go on. (You will need to help them do this at first.) We give small rewards based on good practice habits and progress. Try to include practice with their daily routine: perhaps find a similar time each day. Treat it like "homework" (in a sense that it is necessary and not an option), only it's more fun!

We have two recitals in December and May, and your teacher will be in touch with you about these. There will be much preparation ahead of time during lessons, and it is a great opportunity for students to showcase their hard work and gain self-esteem.

Can lessons be made up? Music SO Simple has a 24-hour cancellation policy. Certainly, if your teacher has to cancel, the lesson will be made up. If you know your child is going to be absent, please let us know as soon as possible, and we will try our best to reschedule at a mutually convenient time. We appreciate close communication with our parents, as it will only make your child more successful. Feel free to call, email, or text anytime. You will receive a Music SO Simple weekly newsletter that will feature our “Students of the Week”, and a monthly newsletter with upcoming events via email. .Also you should "like" us on Facebook to see student achievements and news.

Can/should you sit in on lessons? This is up to you and your teacher. Parents are welcome to sit in on private lessons at any time, and it may be helpful to attend so that you are able to help your child practice correctly at home.

How long does it take to know if private lessons are the right thing for my child? We know that if you say "we're just going to TRY this to see if you like it", there will quickly come a time when your child says "I DON'T WANT TO PRACTICE! I WANT TO QUIT!". We recommend that either your child take lessons through 6th grade if he/she started early,, or for 3 years, -something long term without an easy out. We think that piano is a great instrument to begin on (and continue on), but after 3 years, they will have enough general knowledge of music that they will be equipped to pursue any other instrument they wish!

What happens if they lose interest? Don't panic! Discuss the situation with your child and talk to your teacher to see what might can be done to rekindle their enthusiasm. Give them increased encouragement and support. Frustration typically sets in when they are not practicing enough, and that happens to everyone from time to time. Remind yourself that the habits of self-discipline that are learned in music study carry over into other areas of life. Your child is developing the confidence to master difficult tasks and to pursue challenging goals!

Hopefully, you have found this information useful. If you have any more questions, please
don’t hesitate to call or email us. If you would like to come in and talk in person, that would be fine!

Learning an instrument is such a lifelong gift. Thank you for making it a priority!

It's gonna be a great year!

Sincerely,
Stathia & Meredith