STUDIO POLICIES

1. Enrollment and Scheduling

- Registration: Registration for current and new students begins on June 1st for Fall Semester, December 1 for Spring Semester, and April 1 for Summer Semester. Registration is valid upon payment of either a 30% non-refundable placement deposit (applied to tuition) or paying for the semester in full. Payment in full is required prior to the start of all lessons and classes.

- First Free Lesson: Prior to registration, students may have a free lesson. This is an opportunity to experience our teaching methods, expectations, and determine whether the Star Violin Studio is right for you.

- Semester Duration: The semester follows the calendar year for the MA public school system. The semester consists of 15 weekly lessons, followed by 1 week designated for make-up lessons.

- Lesson Times: Your lesson time is reserved specifically for you each week. Please arrive promptly to make the most of your session.

- Scheduling: Lessons are scheduled at the beginning of the semester. If you need to adjust your lesson time, please notify us as early as possible, and we'll do our best to accommodate your request within the teacher’s availability.

2. Tuition and Payment

- Tuition: Full tuition for the semester (or a 30% deposit) is due at the time of registration. Payment in full is due prior to beginning all lessons.

- Payment Plan Option: Students may elect to pay monthly via Afterpay or Klarna. Service fees and interest may apply.

- Payment Methods: We accept payments via check, credit card, or bank transfer. If you prefer a payment plan, please contact us before the semester begins to set up a customized plan. There is a $25 fee for returned checks.

- Family Discount: Family members living in the same household (parents / guardians or siblings) of Star Violin Studio students receive a 15% discount on violin lessons.

3. Make-Up Lessons

- Make-Up Week: The final week of the semester is reserved for make-up lessons. If you miss a lesson during the semester, this is the best time to catch up.

- Eligibility: Make-up lessons are offered for excused absences only. An absence is excused if you notify us at least 24 hours in advance or in cases of illness or emergency.

- No Shows: Unfortunately, missed lessons without 24-hour prior notice ("no-shows") cannot be made up or refunded.

4. Cancellations and Rescheduling

- Cancellation Policy: If you need to cancel a lesson, please notify us at least 24 hours in advance. We’ll do our best to reschedule within the semester, but availability is limited.

- Teacher Cancellations: If the teacher needs to cancel a lesson, we will offer a make-up lesson or extend the semester to ensure you receive your full lesson package. If a teacher offers a number of opportunities to schedule a make-up but the student is unavailable, the lesson will be forfeited and no credit will be given.

- Holidays and Snow Days: We observe all public school holidays and vacations, but ask your teacher if you still want a lesson. We may be around too! Our snow cancellation policy will follow the Bedford public school system as well as the teacher's discretion. If you have questions about cancellations, contact your instructor.

5. Practice Expectations

- Regular Practice: Consistent practice is key to your progress. We recommend practicing daily and following the practice plan provided during your lessons.

- Practice Materials: Please bring all required materials (music, notebook, etc.) to each lesson. We’ll provide additional resources as needed to support your learning.

6. Communication

- Studio Contact: If you need to reach us for any reason, please contact us via email or phone. We aim to respond to all inquiries within 24 hours.

- Lesson Feedback: We encourage open communication. If you have any questions or concerns about your lessons, please let us know, and we’ll work together to ensure your learning experience is positive and rewarding.

7. Studio Etiquette

- Respectful Environment: Our studio is a place of learning and creativity. We ask that all students and parents maintain a respectful and supportive environment for everyone.

- Punctuality: Please arrive on time for your lessons. Late arrivals may result in a shortened lesson, as we must honor the next student’s scheduled time.

- Health & Safety: If you're feeling sick, coughing, or sneezing, please let us know so we can reschedule your lesson. We'll likewise notify you if we are ill. During highly contagious seasons, we are happy to wear face masks if you prefer and kindly request that you wear a face mask upon our request. The Star Violin Studio reserves the right to ask a student to leave if they or their parents or guardians are showing signs of illness.

8. End-of-Semester Recital

- Performance Opportunity: At the end of each semester, we host a recital where students can showcase their progress. Participation is encouraged but optional. Details will be provided as the recital approaches.

9. Withdraws & Refunds

- Refund Policy: The first free lesson and following three paid lessons make up the introductory period. If a student does not plan to continue lessons after the introductory period, the student / family must withdraw prior to the 4th lesson in the semester. If a student withdraws prior to the 4th paid lesson, 60% of the remainder of tuition will be refunded within 14 days. After the 4th lesson, no refunds will be issued.

10. Non-discrimination Policy

Star Violin Studio does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, mental or physical disability, veteran status or any other category protected under applicable law.