How Lessons Work

Calendar:
Phyllis Plotkin Piano Studio operates on a calendar that takes into account holidays and seasonal breaks. The 2011 calendar is shown below.

CALENDAR 2011    
Lessons Begin Jan. 3, 2011
Spring Break April 24-30
Memorial Day May 30
Summer Break July 1-31
Summer Lessons Aug.1- Sept. 2
Labor Day Sept. 5
Fall Schedule Begins Sept. 6
Thanksgiving Nov. 24
Winter Break Dec. 20 - Jan. 1, 2012

Recitals:
All students have an opportunity to participate in at least two recitals per year, giving them an opportunity to perform for others and an extra incentive to polish selections for performance. As a rule, recitals feature students of similar age, and parents and friends are invited to be part of the audience. An informal social period with refreshments, following each recital, offers an opportunity for conversation amongst students, the teacher, and audience members.

Parents:
Parents have in important role in the musical development of young students. Phyllis Plotkin Piano Studio encourages the attendance of a parent at lessons, especially for students under age 10. That way parents can be aware of what their child is working on and can more effectively monitor their child's practice, which is an important part of the student's daily routine. Music takes discipline and motivation in order to succeed. It is not always fun or easy. Parents and teachers must work together to teach these skills to students.

The home environment can contribute greatly to your child's musical development. Please show your child how important his/her musical studies are to you and your family, by listening to practice when you can, encouraging performances for family and friends, and attending recitals. If possible, take your child to live music concerts, and have recorded music available at home.

Consultations:
I am always happy to discuss your son or daughter's progress or difficulties, or any other questions you might have. (By phone, please.)

Tuition:
Phyllis Plotkin Piano Studio tuition is as follows:
  • 30 minutes per week, $135.00 monthly (available to very young students only)
  • 45 minutes per week, $180.00 monthly
  • 60 minutes per week, $235.00 monthly

    Tuition is based on 40 lessons from January to June, and then September through December 2011. Fees are averaged for this time period to make equal payments. This year, Monday, Thursday and Friday students have only 39 lessons and can make up the missing lesson anytime during the year. To study with me, your obligation is for the 10 months described above. If your vacation does not coincide with mine, we will double up on lessons when we are both available. (Summer lessons, to those interested, are paid for by the lesson.)

    Other Policies:
    Studio policies concerning cancelations, sickness, payment schedules, and the like will be furnished upon request and are given to all enrollees.

    Get Started! For more information about piano lessons and current schedule openings, please contact Phyllis by phone at 510-655-4939 or E-MAIL