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Frequently Asked Questions

Instruments and Supplies

What do I need to start lessons?

You will need an acoustic piano, digital piano or keyboard. While an acoustic piano is preferable, if needed you can start lessons with a keyboard. If you choose to do that, keep in mind that it is best as a temporary solution (no more than 2 years). When choosing a piano look for one that has more than 61 keys (the more the better. 88 is best), has weighted keys or is touch sensitive. Plan on purchasing a pedal if it doesn’t already have one. I am happy to give you suggestions as well.

Will I need to purchase my music?

No. Tuition at Foxx Piano Studio INCLUDES students core music. This is a HUGE benefit to you! I will handle getting the appropriate music needed when your child is ready. One less thing for you to worry about.

Lessons

Is my child ready for piano lessons?

If your child has the desire to take lessons, then it is worth setting up a free introductory lesson with me so I can assess if they are ready or not. I do have some lesson options that are more appropriate for really young beginners. There are many factors in determining if a child is ready. How is their attention span? Can they read letters A-G, numbers 1-4? Can they follow directions? Etc.

How can I support my child in lessons?

I'm so glad you asked! Here is a brief article that will give you some tips!

How long does it take to learn the piano?

This question is a loaded one because it depends on so many factors such as goals and time spent practicing, The short answer? The more you practice, the better the results. Learning to play the piano or any musical instrument is a life long journey that should be enjoyed. How far you want to take the journey is up to you.

How much practice time is required?

I'm not as big on setting time limits as much as I am for wanting students to accomplish goals in their practicing. Attention spans are typically short so telling a child to practice 20 minutes is probably going to result in them watching that clock count down. Instead I recommend goal-based practicing. I can give you some practice "games" and resources to help students stay on task and meet their practice goals. Examples of a goal would be to play a particular section in their piece 3 times without any mistakes, or to play their piece up to tempo correctly. Practicing should happen at least 5 days a week for adequate progress.

What if we need to miss a lesson?

Bonus group lessons are scheduled during the year to account for the occasional times students need to miss a lesson or, very rarely, the instructor. I also offer several other options if you need to miss a lesson. We can schedule a remote lesson if the student is available online during their normal lesson day/time. I can record a video lesson and send it to you to have the student watch at their convenience. Tuition is based on enrollment, not attendance. Your tuition reserves your lesson day and time along with studio benefits. Make up lessons are not an option as I can't teach another student during your scheduled time without replacing the student all together.

What is Piano Lab?

Piano lab is an extension to a student's lesson time but is separate from the actual lesson. It is independent time where students can work on theory, rhythm, ear training and so on using an iPad app, computer, keyboard, etc.

What are Group Lessons?

Piano tends to be a lonely instrument. In each group lesson the focus is different but the end result is the same. From music activities and games, playing for each other, to learning something brand new, group lessons are held several times during the year and is something students really look forward to.

What is music camp?

Music camp is held twice a year in the studio. In December we hold Christmas camp and after the spring semester ends a summer camp is held. Think of camp as a longer group lesson. We dive in deeper and have a ton of fun!

Do you have recitals or other performance events?

At Foxx Piano Studio the performance opportunities are abundant. Students can choose as many or as few events as they would like to participate in. No matter what age or level students are, there is something for everyone. Check out the Piano Events page for more details.

Is there a studio registration fee?

A non-refundable $100.00 studio fee per student is required when you begin piano lessons. The Studio Fee enables the studio to provide students with loaner music, incentives and rewards throughout the year, and defrays substantial costs for the spring recital including awards. In addition, the studio fee covers theory games, lab materials and upkeep, music library materials, as well as the initial cost of lesson materials when lessons first begin (assignment book, first book of the year, binder, supplemental binder music, etc.). If lessons are started in the spring semester the fee will be prorated to $75.00.

Instructor/Studio

What is the free introductory lesson?

There is no charge for the introductory lesson. This is a time to meet each other, share your goals for piano lessons, see the studio and piano lab, enjoy a mini-lesson evaluation and get answers to any additional questions you might have.

What days and times are you available?

Lessons are offered Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of each week from 7am to 6:30pm.

What ages do you teach?

Ages 5 years old through adult.

What styles do you teach?

I think it is important to learn many different styles. If there is a particular style you are hoping to learn, please let me know.

Where are you located?

Foxx Piano studio is located in Goodyear, AZ. The main cross streets are Estrella Parkway/Yuma—super close to the Goodyear ballpark!

Tuition

What is included in my tuition?

The yearly tuition for all lesson formats (except asynchronous lessons and adult lessons) encompasses a comprehensive range of offerings, including but not limited to weekly lessons, group lessons, practice support, core music, performance events, semester camps (or practice packets), and video lessons. Quarterly group lessons are a free bonus. You can view the yearly studio calendar here. You can view the yearly studio calendar here.

How can I pay for lessons?

There are several options for payments.

  • Automated Credit Card (Monthly payments Aug-May, via automated payments through My Music Staff/PayPal)
  • Full Year by Credit Card via PayPal (Aug-May)
  • ESA ClassWallet by Semester (Aug-Dec, Jan-May)
  • *Two postdated checks for each full semester (Aug-Dec in full and Jan-May in full)
  • *Postdated Checks By the Year (Aug-May)

*Full semester or postdate semester checks will receive a $25.00 per semester discount.

Are you an ESA vendor?

Yes, Foxx Piano Studio is an ESA approved vendor. If you receive ESA funds, they can be used to pay for piano lessons with your ClassWallet account or ESA debit card.

What if we need to discontinue lessons or take a break?

Because of all the benefits that are included in your tuition, commitment to lessons are semester based. (Aug-Dec; Jan-May) If you do need to quit, I will need a one-month written and paid notice before the semester ends. (ie: Fall semester is Aug-Dec. You are committed to lessons through December. One month notice needs to be given by Dec. 1st)

If you are wanting to just take a break for whatever reason, I cannot hold your reserved day/time unless it is paid for. If it is paid for, it will be here waiting for you when you return. If it isn't, I will have to add you to my waiting list and you can follow up with me for an opening when you are ready to return.

What if we have to quit after the fall semester?

Please provide a 30 day written notice by Dec. 1st. I will send the student a closure practice packet. This will include 4 video lessons and digital music that students can use at any time. Access to the videos will be available through the end of the spring semester. The music is theirs to keep.

If we need to quit after the spring semester, when would our last lesson be?

Please provide a written notice by April 15th when re-registration is due. Your last lesson with the studio will be at summer camp.

What if we can't participate in the summer camp after the spring semester?

I provide several sessions to choose from including a session in May before school gets out. In the rare case, you need to leave before a summer camp session, I will send the student a complete summer practice packet that will include video lessons and sheet music. Access to the videos will be available through the end of July. The music is theirs to keep.

When is tuition due?

Tuition is due by the 1st of each month. There is a 3-day grace period to turn in your tuition without penalty. If you are more than 3 days late, a $20.00 late penalty will be added to your invoice.