Welcome!
I look forward to working closely with you/your child on a fun musical journey! I offer 30, 45 and 60 minute lessons, depending on age, instrument and level. All lessons are taught out of my home studio in Harrisdale.
Teaching Philosophy
My teaching philosophy is not solely to teach you how to play pieces, but to encourage musicality, learning to listen and understand what you are playing aurally. A typical lesson will always incorporate aural (ear) training in lessons. My priority is always having fun and enjoying your lessons, not simply learning an instrument to pass an exam!
Each student is unique, and so we will work together (including parents of younger children) to tailor a specific program to reach your musical goals while continuing to harness the technical requirements at each level. This means we could be working through a program or a grade, but spend some time during lessons on fun songs on the radio, beginners jazz, blues etc.
Expectations
What you can expect from me
- Tailored Music Program for each student. I believe each student is unique and there is no blanket program that is one-size-fits-all! I do not mandate exams such as AMEB grades, however, I will ensure every student has personal goals that they are working towards which will include some form of performance. This is an excellent skill to work on that will translate into many areas in your future professional and personal life!
- A safe, positive and encouraging learning environment: I am open and honest with giving feedback to my students.
What I expect from my students (& parents)
- Practice: the only way to have consistent growth in your music journey! I will set weekly assignments and work with you to create sustainable practice habits suited to your learning style.
- Annual Musical Goals that we will form together at the beginning of each school year.
- Parent Involvement: the best and most enthusiastic students with the most effective practice habits have equally enthusiastic parents! Set aside a few minutes each week to check in with your child's practice routine. Ask them questions on their practice, or have a mini-concert for the family at home!
- Open Communication about your progress, expectations and learning experience.
Tuition & Scheduling
I teach according to the Western Australian Public School terms. Please see the education department's website for all school dates: https://www.education.wa.edu.au/future-term-dates
When you sign up, you are reserving your time slot for the entire school year. Please keep this in mind when discussing your lesson time slot. If a family or school commitment arises later in the year, please discuss with me as soon as possible. I am unable to guarantee that a swap will be organised during the year, this is subject to my studio's availability.
Tuition
Tuition is due in full at the beginning of each term (by the end of Week 1). Typically, this is for 10 lessons over a 10-week term. I will adjust these for any shorter or longer school terms.
For students with Monday lessons, you will have 3 weeks of Public Holidays (Labour Day, Anzac Day, WA Day) during the school terms which will be reflected in your invoice.
2022-2023 Tuition rates are as follows:
30 minute: $36 per lesson
45 minute: $56.50 per lesson
60 minute: $72 per lesson
Please note that my rates are in line with industry standards, and WA Music Teacher Association recommended minimum for WA-based private teachers.
Make-Up Policy
If you miss a lesson due to illness or family emergency, you will be credited with a make-up lesson which must be used within 2 weeks of the cancelled lesson. Lessons missed by a student will not be refunded. Make-up lessons are subject to availability.
Your make-up lesson will be via Zoom online, at a time arranged between us. If it is not arranged by the parent or student within the 2 weeks of cancelled lesson, your make up credit will expire.
Should I need to cancel a lesson, I will offer you a make-up lesson, or a refund or credit for the following term.
Please understand that my teaching studio is running at full capacity, and I cannot easily move one student to another student's spot. Thank you for understanding!
*COVID-19 UPDATE*
1) If you are feeling unwell, please do not come in for your lesson. We will organise a make-up lesson.
2) In the event of a snap lockdown or other restrictions that prevent us from having in-person lessons, we will move online with home set ups via Zoom. If you choose not to attend your online lesson at your usual time, please note that that lesson fee will be forfeited.
Discontinuing Lessons
If you find that my studio is not the right fit for you or your child, please let me know. That is absolutely understandable and I am 100% supportive of every student finding the right path for their music learning. I am happy to recommend other teachers too. 😊 I do require 2 weeks' notice should you decide to discontinue your lessons. Please note that unattended lessons for the rest of the term will not be refunded.
Recitals
I believe that music is meant to be shared, not kept to yourself! Recitals are a fun and awesome way to celebrate your achievements and also be inspired by your fellow students on their own musical journeys.
We will have 2 recitals each year: an Online Recital in Term 2, and Christmas Concert in December. The Online Recital will be via Video Assignment Submission of your prepared piece, and everyone will log on and watch your submissions together. The Christmas Concert will be a live performance of your favourite pieces from the year. Both performances are required, unless you have prior travel or other commitments. A recital fee will be applicable only for the Christmas Concert.
Communication
I love hearing feedback and I want to work with you! Communication is a key ingredient for a successful learning environment. Please feel free to keep our communication open and transparent, and to contact me with any concerns or questions. You can reach my via my email contact@nicholettecmusic.com, or on my mobile 0413 434 114.
3-Warnings System
I have a 3-warnings system whereby a student will receive 3 warnings due to lack of practice, commitment, or inappropriate behaviour. This will be clearly communicated to the parents while we work together to ensure we increase motivation and practice levels. After 3 warnings, I will regretfully have to let that student go. Any remaining lessons for the term will be refunded to you immediately.