Frequently Asked Questions
Can i Take a Trial Lesson?
Yes, you can take a trial lesson with no obligation to take more. Once you’ve taken a trial lesson, I can hold the spot for 24 hours. The fees for a trial lesson are the same as the regular lesson fees listed below.
How much do your lessons cost?
My rates are $35 for a half-hour lesson, $52.50 for 45 minutes, and $69 for an hour.
How do I pay?
I bill in advance on a monthly basis, and accept payment via credit or debit card through MyMusicStaff, my studio management software. Clients are billed for one month’s lessons at a time at the beginning of each month. Please note that all clients are required to use the auto-pay feature of the MyMusicStaff software (enabling this function allows Mic Drop to charge your card automatically when your invoice is emailed to you).
How many lessons do I have to sign up for, and how often?
Lessons - Students who take lessons between 3:00 PM and 7:30 PM on weekdays are typically required to take weekly lessons. Depending on availability, though I may be able to schedule a lesson every other week or once a month, so feel free to ask! I can also exercise a little more flexibility for morning lessons, though the vast majority of my students take lessons each week, as that tends to be the best way to make steady progress on their instruments. I request that clients informally commit to 12 weeks of lessons once they've decided to take them on a regular basis, though I don't require them to sign a contract to that effect. Teaching is my full-time job, and a maintaining a regular weekly schedule helps me make a consistent living. I simply ask students to take that into account when booking lessons with me.
Classes - By default, students enroll in classes on a quarterly basis, though you’re welcome to join a class mid-quarter. However, classes are billed on a monthly basis. Classes that have already been charged to your account for a given month are non-refundable, though I can make exceptions in the event of an emergency.
What if i need to cancel a lesson?
- My cancellation policy works on a quarterly basis. Students will get an email at the beginning of each quarter outlining the exact dates. For every three month period during the Fall, Winter, and Spring, (September 10th - December 21st, January 5th -March 31st, April 1st - June 30th), students get one excused absence, and will get a refund for the cost of those lessons. Any additional missed lessons in that three-month period are non-refundable. Students who take lessons in the Summer (July 1st - September 9th) are given up to three excused absences to accommodate their travel plans. Federal and religious holidays are exempt, as is the day after Thanksgiving and the week between Christmas and New Year's Day. School vacations are not; the idea is that families that are traveling during school vacations can use one of their excused absences to do so.
- I make every effort to provide makeups for missed lessons. Lessons are made up during one or two scheduled makeup Saturdays in each quarter. Please be advised that these are specific dates and cannot be scheduled on any given Saturday in that quarter. From time to time I also make up lessons mid-week when I have cancellations and can use the free time to do so.
how do i end my lessons with mic drop?
- Simply get in touch via phone or email and let me know. Please be advised that I require one month’s notice to terminate your lessons, which does not include scheduled breaks and holidays. Your communication with me that you wish to do so is your 30 day notice, and I will charge your account for four additional lessons from the time I receive it.
What ages do you teach?
All of them! I’ve taught children as young as two years old and adults as old as 80. I welcome the opportunity to teach and engage with you at any and all parts of your musical journey.
Do I need my own instrument to take lessons or classes?
Yes. Every student has to do some practicing in between lessons in order to learn and make progress, so you will need your own instrument.
Where can I get one, and how much should I pay?
I’m happy to recommend instrument brands and models from physical and online retailers I know and trust. Please contact me by phone or email for additional information.