Nancy Leinonen Howells - Studio Policies

All lessons in Nancy's private studio are held in Maynard, Massachusetts. No students younger than 15 years of age will be accepted into the studio.

Prospective students are offered a consultation lesson free of charge. This is not an audition, but a sample lesson and a "getting to know one another" session. No student will be accepted without the consultation lesson.

Current fees (as of September 2006):
· 30 minutes - $30
· 60 minutes - $50

These rates are for pay-as-you-go lessons. Prepay four lessons and receive a 10% discount.

Prepaid lessons must be cancelled no less than 24 hours in advance or payment is forfeited. If Nancy cancels the lesson will be rescheduled and a credit will be applied.

Lesson accompaniment is provided by Nancy unless specific arrangements are made in advance.

From time to time, studio performances may be scheduled. Additional fees will be charged to accommodate a professional accompanist and rental of space. These performances are strictly voluntary, though strongly encouraged.

Studio space policies include the following:
· No smoking is allowed on the premises.
· Arrangements must be made for anyone other than the student to attend the lesson, due to space constraints; however parents of younger students are always welcome to sit in.

Required materials:
· Notebook and pencil.
· Music being studied.
Please note that music is never loaned from the studio; students are strongly encouraged to purchase their own music, although borrowing from local libraries is acceptable. Other useful resources for music include Musicnotes (http://www.musicnotes.com), TIS Music (http://www.tismusic.com), and the Bagaduce Music Lending Library (http://www.bagaducemusic.org).

Recommended items:
· Cassette tape or 80-minute Minidisc (Audiotape and Minidisc recorders are available in the studio. Other recording equipment may be used, but is the responsibility of the student to provide.)
· Keyboard for at-home use (small electronic acceptable.)
· Metronome.

Expectations:
Vocal study is a physical discipline that requires repeated practice to perfect. Because of this, each student is expected to:
· Practice as discussed in lessons.
· Be an active participant in lessons, by asking questions, responding to exercises, and offering feedback regarding physical sensations and interpretation.
· Respect the process and themselves, by practicing good vocal hygiene (no smoking, drugs, yelling).
· Give notice of intent to cease study at any time.

60-minute lessons are strongly recommended except for very young students. If a weekly 60-minute lesson is not possible, it is better to schedule bi-weekly lessons. Repeated absences will result in your spot in the studio being offered to another student.

Nancy reserves the right to reject any student applicant.