Further Details

Zara-V Studio provides private piano and voice lessons for ages 7 and up. Beginners New beginner students start with a primary foundational series of lesson books. Each book progresses a student through another phase of learning how to read music, understand the theory behind music, and how to play the piano. In addition, special music, such as classical, jazz, and popular songs, is interspersed for fun and added variety. Introducing new music assists the teacher in learning more about the student's musical passions for future enhancement and personal enjoyment. Transfers Continuing with the same lesson books from former teachers is essential. It is then determined what additional music, theory, exercise, and sight-reading materials should be added to further a student's progression. Adults The process for beginners and transfers is equally flexible for adults. They have the freedom to influence the pace of their lessons and the types of music they want to explore. Participation in performance classes or recitals is not mandatory for adults, unless they wish to. We strongly encourage everyone to share their music by playing their 'special' pieces with family and friends, as it can be a truly rewarding experience. Performances Twice a year, we host the Winter Students Recital and Joy of Music Gala, the concerts set in at a welcoming location. All students are warmly encouraged to participate, except for first-year beginners and adults, who have the choice. New beginners can attend the concerts, which are designed to familiarize them with the process and create a comfortable environment for their first performance.

There are numerous reasons why one would want to play the piano or sing. Once the determination is made to take lessons, then finding the special teacher is a key element. Through our working together, we can outline the goals and objectives to be accomplished through weekly lessons. Each student has special gifts, talents, skills, and abilities to be enlightened, enhanced, excelled and expanded. Lesson plans are designed to bring out the best in each student. Personal relationships are built to help a student feel comfortable, feel free to express themselves through their music lessons, as well as asking questions and expressing concerns throughout the lessons. Lesson Content Receive lesson materials and weekly assignments ​Learn to read and play various types of music. ​Learn practice techniques ​Learn theory and how to apply to music ​Learn how to perform in front of others ​Receive coaching for individual musical goals Lesson Results Able to apply music theory and sight-reading skills to your instrument ​Play or sing a variety of music pieces and share with others Gain new confidence, skills, and abilities ​Ability to progress at your own rate ​Transfer new skills to other forms of music Gain a lifetime of musical enjoyment

Lesson Availability Weekly private music lessons for 30, 45, or 60 minutes. The fees may vary. It depends on the frequency of classes per week. Payment for the month is due at the first lesson of each month or before each lesson. Checks, cash, credit cards, online transfers, PayPal, and Zelle are acceptable. Cost of Music Typically, the teacher determines the students' music. The student should purchase the materials on time if the teacher purchases the materials for a student. The reimbursement is due on the first lesson of the following month or earlier. Lesson Duration As a courtesy to others and to ensure the full-allotted time is available for each lesson, arrival for lessons should be at or just before the exact time scheduled. For each student to remain on schedule, lessons will end on time regardless of the start time. Missed Lessons Lessons can be rescheduled to a more appropriate time during that week. A missed lesson is not charged if 24 or more hours of advance notice is received. The lesson will be charged if you cannot give 24 or more hours notice.

Practice Duration ​The initial duration of practice per student varies depending on many factors. The initially recommended length of time for practice will be discussed between students, parents, and teachers. It might be determined, for example, that a 5-year-old needs to practice 10 - 15 minutes, while a young beginner might need to spend 20 minutes practicing. As the student progresses, the practice time should expand to 30-45 minutes per day for 5 to 6 days per week. When the student is preparing for a recital, more practice time might be needed. Don't forget, though, that in addition to practice, simply playing your favorite songs on the piano is fun. It's not all work and no play!

Expectations ​​Student: Students are to practice each week in preparation for their lessons. Read lesson notes to remember what and how to practice each piece. Complete any required homework for lesson time. You are learning about music, theory, and how to play the piano. There is a lot to learn. Bring all lessons and current workbooks to the studio and any others suggested by the teacher. It helps to have a special music bag to carry materials. Participate in performance classes/rehearsals and recitals where required. Be prepared to the best of your ability. Memorize when possible. Keep up communication with a teacher about needs, expectations, necessary lesson adjustments, or any other concerns. Parents: ​Encourage and help the student establish a good practice time per agreement: i.e., 30 minutes per day for five days per week. Help support students who need assistance with homework, especially young beginners. ​Have students arrive at lessons on a timely basis. Keep up communication with a teacher about needs, expectations, necessary lesson adjustments, or any other concerns.

Two recitals are held each year. Adults are not required to participate in recitals. All other students are required to perform. The only exception is for new students, who have a choice to perform during their first recital period. Two weeks before the recital, each student, including new students, will participate in a performance/rehearsal class at the Zara-V Studio location. This is a crucial part of our preparation process, as it allows students to become familiar with the recital environment and performance expectations. For new students, this class is especially beneficial, as it provides a free lesson of their individual lesson for that week, helping them feel prepared and confident for their first performance. The dates and times of the performance classes and recitals will be announced several weeks in advance by a separate notice. This will typically be by email. Recitals and rehearsals are held at an offsite location to be announced at the time. Performance classes are for students. However, the family can attend if desired. Recitals are for family and friends you wish to invite. ​

Holiday Lessons There will not be lessons during the following holidays: Memorial Day 4th of July Labor Day Thanksgiving Day Christmas and New Year's Break Unless otherwise notified, lessons will be held on all other holidays and school closings. Summer Lessons The skills and attitude developed in your musical ability are not just an educational opportunity but also a chance for entertainment and personal growth. They build a foundation for success in all aspects of life. As with most successful endeavors, consistency and repetition are fundamental ingredients. For that reason, we strongly encourage music lessons as a year-round activity. The months of June, July, and August are special vacation times for most students in school. Students are expected to continue lessons throughout the summer. A student should participate in at least eight (8) classes during these summer months to ensure placement for the following fall. The teaching schedule is adjusted during the summer period.