Gracefully Playing Studio Policy

Learning Objectives

In the Gracefully Playing Studio, students will:

1. Develop beautiful tone and reliable technique through foundational exercises

2. Learn the power of individual expression through musical phrasing and breath control

3. Play a variety of solo and orchestral pieces in performance

4. Become acquainted with music theory, history, and repertoire listening practices

5. Apply prior musical knowledge to their own practice when learning a new work 

6. Set personal and musical goals to achieve through dedicated practice

Mission Statement

I am dedicated to cultivating thoughtful, resilient, and expressive musicians through a process-oriented approach to learning. I prioritize developing strong practice strategies through self-awareness, creative problem-solving, and a healthy mindset toward challenges and mistakes.

I foster patience, discipline, emotional expression, independence, and intrinsic motivation in my student musicians, all of which are skills that will lead to success far beyond their flute playing.

Student Responsibilities

To promote an effective learning environment, students are expected to:

1. Arrive at the studio five minutes prior to the scheduled start time of their lesson with the following required materials: instrument and cleaning cloth/rod, notebook, pencil, and music. Students will need to purchase a music stand and tuner/metronome, which will remain in the home for practice.

2. Complete consistent daily practice equivalent to their weekly lesson length.

3. Prepare all assigned materials, available in the student notebook.

4. Submit payment and all administrative materials promptly (see Fees for details).

5. Inform me of any scheduling conflicts (see Attendance for details).

Lessons and Scheduling

Lessons are offered once a week. The lesson will consist of the following general structure:

1. Fundamentals (10 min)

   1. Tone, Technique, Multiple Tonguing Exercises

   2. Music theory enrichment

2. Etudes and Methods (10 min)

   1. Growth in tone development, technique, and musical expression 

   2. Learning of effective practice strategies

3. Repertoire Development (10-15 min)

   1. Solo or ensemble repertoire, including orchestral excerpts

   2. Phrasing and style development

   3. Music history enrichment

4. Duets (10 min)

   1. Prioritizes aural awareness in ensemble playing (intonation, articulation, style, expression)

5. Closing (5 min)

   1. Clarification of upcoming assignments

   2. Goal-setting for meaningful and productive practice and performance

Fees

Lessons are offered at a monthly flat rate as follows. Payment is due at the first lesson of every month, and can be received via cash, check, Venmo (@Grace-Playstead), or PayPal (GracePlaystead) at your convenience. If payment has not been received by the second week of each month, a late fee of $15 will be charged.

1 hr weekly lessons: $360/month

45 min weekly lessons: $270/month

30 min weekly lessons: $190/month

Attendance 

Consistent attendance is very important for student success. If you have conflict with your weekly lesson, please consult my weekly schedule to swap with another student. Additional make-up times during winter and summer break will be made available via email.

There is a 24 hour cancellation policy in effect. If you cancel during this time, you cannot reschedule and a make-up lesson will not be offered. If the absence is due to illness, please contact me to schedule a make-up lesson. Do not come to lessons if you are sick.

Performance and Audition Opportunities

Students are required to participate in the biannual Gracefully Playing Studio recitals. In addition to recital engagements, school-aged students frequently enter Regional and State Solo & Ensemble Competitions, audition for local youth symphonies, summer festivals, and WMEA All-State and All-Northwest ensembles. My adult students engage in Adult Amateur performances (ensembles & competitions) with the Seattle Flute Society and National Flute Association.

Performance is just one aspect of a student’s musical experience. Our weekly goal setting in lessons and practice is a process-oriented approach that will prepare students for successful performances, however they choose to define it. 

Parental Involvement

Parental involvement and support is essential, especially for young students. I expect bimonthly attendance at lessons for parents with students in the sixth grade or younger, and quarterly attendance for parents of middle and high school students. By observing lessons and reading email correspondence, parents can support their child’s musical learning through:

1. Encouraging consistent, quality practice

2. Being appraised of upcoming lesson assignments and administrative responsibilities

3. Reinforcing concepts introduced in lesson

Studio Community Values

I am committed to making The Gracefully Playing Studio a respectful and inclusive educational community. I specialize in teaching neurodivergent students, providing a safe space for everyone to express themselves freely.