Studio Policy & Resources

Private Lesson Information

I manage my studio through the University of Arkansas Community Music School. I have found running my studio in this way has not only provides me the benefits of a great place to teach, but my students also get to see and hear from the wonderful faculty and students.

My studio policies align with the UofA Community Music School policies with one addition. I require students to keep a Lesson Notebook, details for which are outlined below.

University of Arkansas Community Music School Private Lesson Policies.

If you are interested in lessons you can contact me here.

Lesson Notebook

Why a Lesson Notebook?
I believe that structured, consistent practice is key to every musician’s success. To support this, I am introducing the Lesson Notebook for all students. This tool will serve as both a lesson tracker and a practice journal, fostering accountability, clarity, and self-awareness in their music education.

Inspired by the principles in The Musician’s Way by Gerald Klickstein, the Lesson Notebook provides:

  • Clear Goals: Each lesson will have specific objectives outlined, helping students focus on what matters most.

  • Practice Strategies: Students will develop efficient practice habits by reflecting on and organizing their daily efforts.

  • Progress Tracking: The notebook creates a tangible record of achievements, enabling students, parents, and teachers to celebrate growth over time.

With this notebook, we aim to empower your child to take ownership of their learning while building the skills and confidence to become a lifelong musician.

Instructions for Students: Lesson Notebook Elements

Your Lesson Notebook will be your guide throughout your musical journey this semester. By following these steps, you’ll ensure that each practice session is productive and enjoyable.

1. Weekly Lesson Tracker

At the start of each lesson, we’ll outline:

  • Lesson Goals: Specific pieces, techniques, or concepts to master this week.

  • Assignments: Clear, actionable tasks for daily practice.

  • Teacher Notes: Suggestions or tips from me to keep in mind while practicing.

Your Task: At home, review these notes before every practice session to stay focused.

2. Daily Practice Journal

Each practice session, write down:

  1. Date & Time: Record when you practiced and for how long.

  2. Warm-Up: List scales, exercises, or etudes you started with. Reflect briefly: What went well? What needs improvement?

  3. Repertoire: Note the pieces you worked on and the specific sections you focused on (e.g., measures 12-24).

    • What strategies did you use? (e.g., slow practice, hands separately, metronome work)

    • Were there any breakthroughs or persistent challenges?

  4. Reflection: End each entry with a short summary:

    • What did I improve today?

    • What will I focus on in the next practice session?

3. Weekly Self-Evaluation

As part of each lesson we will discuss and adjust goals using the following questions:

  • What did I accomplish this week?

  • What challenges did I face? How did I address them?

  • What’s my goal for next week?

4. Bring Your Notebook to Every Lesson

I will review your entries to provide personalized guidance and help to adjust your practice plan. Consistency in using your Lesson Notebook will help you make meaningful progress!

Recommended Book

While a specific notebook is not required. I have found the Notabl_ journal to be the best, out of the box layout for this kind of journal. If you use code NWP at checkout you save 15% and New Works Project gets $2. They are a musician owned company that makes a high quality product.

University of Arkansas
Parking

The best place to park for lessons on the University of Arkansas Campus for lessons is in the Stadium Parking Garage. This garage is off of Stadium Dr, behind the Bud Walton Residence Hall across the street from the Donald W Reynolds Razorback Stadium. Payment is required in numbered parking spots from 8am to 8pm on weekdays.

If you are just dropping your student off, you can do so at the south entrance to the building off of McIlroy Ave across from the greek theatre. Follow dickson street up the hill and turn right at McIlroy Avenue. (It’s the only right turn at the top of the hill.) Parking near the music building is limited to 2 metered spots that only accept quarters and have a 30 minute minimum.

Northwest Arkansas Community College Parking

Parking at NWACC is much easier to find. There is open parking in the outer ring of the parking lot of Burns Hall or in the Parking Garage on the backside of the building. Parking close to the building is reserved for parking permits, and are patrolled regularly by NWACC security.

Once inside Burns Hall, if you entered from the main entrance next to the library go right. Continue to follow the hallway to the left and go past the vending machines and restrooms until reach a lobby on the right side. That lobby contains the elevator and stairwell that will take you up to the music department.

I try my best of have an assigned room for each lesson. However, make up lessons, campus events, and other faculty can sometimes hinder my ability to do so. If the lessons won’t be in the usual location, I will find you in the hallway, guide you to the new location and let you know if the change is permanent.