Student Responsibilities

Playing a musical instrument requires a commitment on the part of the student (and parent, if the student is very young). Regular daily practice is THE ONLY WAY to receive the maximum benefit from your music lessons. 

The lesson itself is an important, but at the same time, a very, very small part of the week. In truth, the student learns to play in between lessons, when they practice. Since students learn how to play in between lessons, it is essential that students practice on a regular basis in order to experience healthy progress. 

Students are expected to practice a minimum of five (5) days each week in order to complete the weekly assignments. Consistent and intentional practice—not natural talent or mindless repetition—is what leads to enjoyment, maximized progress, personal satisfaction and fulfillment.

Although I regard it the student's responsibility to schedule and maintain a healthy practice schedule, parents of young children will need to help them out until the student is mature enough to take on this responsibility themselves. A regularly scheduled time each day will help students remember to practice without constant reminders. 

Younger students need parental help establishing proper practice habits and parents are encouraged to attend lessons in order to support the student in between their lessons.

Many students find using an assignment notebook extremely helpful in assisting them in their daily practice routine. The notes and reminders ensure that practice time is spent on specific assignments, rather than mindlessly repetition.

The primary role of a music student is to be an skilled and proficient learner. The qualities of an adept learner include:

Responsibility - You are aware that to advance, you must take responsibility for your learning.
Mastery Oriented - You have an understanding that success is the result of a high level of effort and use of appropriate strategies.
Independent -  You are resourceful in finding solutions, not giving up when problems get complicated, and learning from your mistakes along the way.
Persistent - In spite of frustration, obstacles, or discouragement, you continue on a course of action that will result in you reaching your goals.
Openness - You have a general appreciation for new and different ideas. You are intellectually adventurous, imaginative, and have a keen interest in seeing things from different perspectives.
Goal-Oriented - You have an outcome-oriented mindset in every practice session and musical activity you engage in.
Prioritization - You understand to do the important things—your highest, most important priorities—first. It means being driven by the principles you value most and not by whimsical forces that take you away from your path.

Instrument & Equipment

All students are required to have a playable, well-maintained acoustic instrument. Preference is for nylon-stringed instruments but a steel-string is great too. In addition, you should have a proper case to transport your instrument and protect it from the elements.

It is vital for the student to have at home:

• a metronome

• music stand

• a proper chair

• a guitar support/footstool

All students must purchase their own music, especially of a composer who is still living.