Information & Policies

Required Documents
Clients committing to lessons for the year are required to sign a copy of the Information and Policies as well as an annual tuition contract.

Annual Registration
A non-refundable registration fee is required for continuing Songbirds to reserve a place for the Fall semester. In cases where clients join mid-year, the registration fee will be prorated. Lesson days and times are first-come, first served – once I receive your fee and signed paperwork, I can plug you into the schedule.

Lesson Duration & Frequency
Lessons are 45 or 60 minutes. The studio calendar year runs from mid-August to mid-August. Between late August and mid-June, clients take lessons approximately weekly with no lessons on FCPS Winter or Spring breaks. Between mid-June and mid-August, clients receive 3 summer lessons (additional lessons available for purchase if desired). Summer lesson time slots are first-come, first-served.

Tuition
For most clients, tuition is an annual amount and is paid in either 1, 2, 5 or 12 payments. All payment plans require enrollment in Stripe-powered auto-pay using either a bank account or credit card. Individual payments can be made via cash, check (made out to Songbird Voice Studios), or Zelle.

Online Lessons
Clients wanting consistent or occasional online lessons will need to invest a bit upfront for basic tech equipment (bonus is you will have a nice setup for at-home recording). Please speak with me before purchasing any equipment.

Attendance
Regular and prompt attendance is required to make appropriate progress. If you are unable to meet for a lesson, please call, email, or text with as much advance notice as possible.

Sheet Music / Songbooks
Clients must own legal copies of all music they will use regularly. I will not accept or use photocopied music. I DO utilize legal music downloaded from the internet, and I have electronic licenses to print and/or share certain music books and individual song selections. I am happy to recommend songbooks. Music purchases I make on your behalf will be billed as needed. See the next section for more detail.

Required Equipment and Supplies

  • At-home tech setup (if you want the occasional online lesson)

  • Legal copies of your music (approx. $50 per year)

  • A metal music stand for hands-free singing (The Manhasset M4801 Music Stand is around $70.00 and is the industry standard)

  • A 3-ring notebook for printed sheet music, printouts, etc

  • A way to record assignments or notes

  • 2-3 sharpened no. 2 pencils

  • A private practice space at home, free of distraction with access to a full-length mirror

  • A computer or device to play accompaniment recordings at home. Recording your lesson or parts of your lessons is very helpful for learning new exercises and tracking your progress over time

  • NOTE: a piano or digital keyboard is a fantastic resource!


Practice and Assignments
Clients who wish to make steady progress should build in time for regular practice. Practicing often for short periods is far more effective than a single marathon practice session. Read that again! Marathon sessions are no good for the beginning singer. As an estimate, I recommend the following:

  • Fledgling Songbirds – 10-15 minutes, 3-4 times a week (up to 60 minutes per week)

  • Intermediate Songbirds – 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a week (up to 80 minutes per week)

  • Advanced Songbirds – 30+ minutes, 4-5 times a week (150+ minutes per week)


Performance Opportunities
No matter what age or proficiency level, performance is very important for the music student. Opportunities will be provided for clients to perform throughout the year. I highly encourage all clients to participate in studio events and recitals, but do not require such.

I will gladly help prepare clients who are interested and eligible for auditions, music festivals, talent shows, performance opportunities at places of worship, or any other such opportunities that may arise. Please bring any information you have to me with as much advance notice as possible.

No Make Ups Policy
No make up lessons are given for those missed or canceled by the client. Exceptions to the rule include a death in the family, certain emergencies or cases of prolonged illness. For a more nuanced look at the rationale behind this policy, please see the article ‘Makeups from an Economist’s Point of View’.

If it is necessary for me to miss a lesson, I will reschedule your lesson as soon as I am able (I have set aside specific days for rescheduled lessons). A client who does not attend a lesson will simply miss the benefit of that lesson. But don’t worry: tuition covers far more than the time spent with you in your lesson, so don’t worry that missing a lesson means wasting money. I frequently use missed lessons to plan for your next lesson; to conduct research, locate materials, explore new repertoire, etc.

To Avoid Missing Lessons:

  • Plan for the occasional online lesson (i.e; you are contagious, but can still sing)

  • Lesson Swap List: Clients who opt in may trade times with another singer.

  • Gifting a Lesson: You are welcome to ‘gift’ a lesson to a willing friend or family member.


Summer Lesson Scheduling
In early to mid-June, I provide access to my online summer calendar. Lesson slots are first-come, first-served.

Late Payments
Late payments will be assessed a $35.00 fee.

Additional Costs

  • Recitals: approx. $50 per recital for studio accompanist (includes 2 rehearsals + performance)

  • Singing Brunches: approx. $25 per event for studio accompanist

  • Other group outings: TBD


Communication
For longer messages, please email (regina@songbirdvoicestudios.com), or call (571) 786-9591. Texting is reserved for quick messages or pressing logistics.

Termination of Lessons
Lessons may be terminated at any time at the instructor’s discretion. Several possible reasons for termination include non-payment, refusal to practice, or non-compliance with studio policies. Any tuition already paid will not be refunded.