Tuition, missed lessons and cancellation policies are in effect during the school year between September and June. Summer lessons are available in July and August on a casual basis but are still subject to safety, liability and illness policies.
Illness
Singing involves extensive use of the upper respiratory system, making the act of singing more vulnerable to illness. Viruses are also spread more easily while singing. Because of this, adhering to the illness policy is of the utmost importance for the students and the teacher. Many students, and your teacher will often have important performances, competitions and exams on the horizon, and will need to reduce their risk of getting sick.
In person lessons are not available to those experiencing cold or flu symptoms. Please take advantage of the online lesson option. If there is space, I may also be able to reschedule.
If symptoms are persisting and you feel the student is no longer contagious, please give me a heads up, so that I can choose to wear a mask or switch to a more ventilated area. I will also request that the student wear a mask as well if symptoms are present. I have masks available, including children’s sizes.
Students are asked to please wash their hands before each lesson.
Student Expectations
All students are required to bring these items to EVERY lesson:
- A 3 ring binder (1 inch or smaller. Larger widths lead to sheet music curling and damage and harder to turn pages) with their music double sided, and hole punched (plastic sleeves are unnecessary and a hinderance to making notes on the page)
- Their lesson notebook for me to write in
- A water bottle (even better if it has a straw)
- Any workbooks or other materials used in class
While I do have copies of most of the music to use in a pinch, it is essential for students to be able to use their own copy, with their own notes and markings so that we can be consistent in our approach to the song.
Practicing expectations will vary depending on the students age, level, goals and learning style.
No matter the age of the student, it is important to integrate practicing into your weekly routine, and find ways to make it engaging, efficient (work smarter not harder!) and sustainable.
Over the first few lessons, we’ll work together to establish these expectations and routines.
Tuition
Invoices and payment deadlines will be provided at the start of every term. You will have the option to pay monthly, or by term.
Tuition amounts are fixed and based off of the official calendar. Changes due to student missed lessons can not be accommodated. However, tuition will be adjusted for those signing up for lessons later in the year.
The 3 terms run from September through December, January through March, and April through June.
Summer lessons may be available on a casual basis.
Payments can be made via e-transfer to annaclaremendham@gmail.com
Late payments will be subject to a $25 fine for ever week missed.
Receipts will be available at the end of every term, unless otherwise requested.
Tuition rates are guaranteed for the school year, but may increase by small increments annually.
Missed lessons and Makeups
Refunds and credits are not available for missed lessons, regardless of notice.
Makeup lessons are not guaranteed. However, I may be able to accommodate occasional changes with advanced notice.
If a student has to miss a lesson due to illness or other circumstances, online lessons are available via Zoom or FaceTime. I am also available for other forms of support during their allotted time, such as recording warmups. Or you may wish to send a friend or family member to enjoy the lesson in their place.
Cancellation/ Withdrawing from lessons
I require 4 weeks notice of any plans to withdraw from lessons during the school year. A $50 cancellation fee will be applied.
Instructor Absences
Should I need to miss a lesson for whatever reason, we will schedule a makeup lesson at a mutually agreeable time.
Sometimes, in an effort to reduce the spread of illness, I may switch to online lessons for the day.
Waiting area
Family members are welcome to make themselves comfortable in the living room area while they wait.
Please enjoy food and any beverages that are not water outside or in the car.
Toys, books and games are provided.
Safety
Children under 9 must be escorted to and from the door. If a parent or guardian has opted not to stay in the waiting area, they must return at least 1 minute prior to the lesson end time. This also gives us an opportunity to debrief, and discuss the practicing expectations for the week. If you are picking up after the lesson has ended, please make sure to give me a wave before you leave.
Should you require accommodations due to mobility issues or illness, do let me know and I’ll happily walk them out.
Children under 8 may not be left unattended in the waiting area.
Liability
ACM Voice Studio, Anna Mendham and Anthea Frost are not liable for any damages, injuries, illnesses or claims relating to or arising from participation in voice lessons, classes or performances, using the common area or entering and leaving the premises.
ACM Voice Studio 