Policy Questions 

1. What is the payment policy?

The Cindy's Music School monthly membership reserves a recurring weekly time slot for your lesson. Membership payment is via debit or credit card only, with a recurring payment plan. The payment is drafted on the 1st day of every month. To cancel your membership, simply provide 30 days notice, and the payment plan will be stopped.

2. What is the cancellation policy? 

Students must provide at least 24 hours notice for cancellations. Unlike a doctor or hairdresser who takes walk-ins, I cannot resell your appointment time. The time passes whether or not you choose to use it. Therefore, there are no refunds or make-up lessons for last minute cancellations. With 24 hours notice, I am more than happy to schedule a make up lesson. Make up lessons must be used within the month of the missed lesson, and will not be transferred to future months. 

3. What is policy on lateness? 

Your payment covers a specific time slot. If you are late, your lesson will not be extended after your time slot has ended.

Voice Lesson Questions

1. What's the difference between a voice teacher and a vocal coach?

A voice teacher focuses primarily on vocal technique. A vocal coach focuses on style, expression, and performance. I will assist you in both areas.

2. I already get lots of compliments on my voice. Why should I take voice lessons?

Voice lessons will teach you how to navigate through your different vocal registers (head, chest, mix) without strain and the resulting fatigue. It will improve the stability of your voice and give you control over the middle of your range (where most people struggle). Lessons will give you more options and vocal tools, and give you a wider range of expression. There are many singers with beautiful voices who ended up with vocal injuries because they weren't properly trained, and were riding on their natural talent. This can be prevented with functional voice training. 

3. What is "functional" voice training?

This means that the exercises we do will always be tailored to your vocal needs and will always have a specific function. I'm not just teaching you what worked on my voice, because your needs might be different than mine! I'll also explain everything clearly and raise your awareness so you can duplicate the sound and feeling at home when you practice. This is no cookie-cutter "YouTube voice lesson" approach!

4. Do I have to learn "classical technique"? Are you going to make me sound like an opera singer?

If you want to sing classical music or 'legit' musical theater, then we should definitely work on classical technique! If your goals are in the direction of CCM (Contemporary Commercial Music), then we should focus on CCM technique. You're always welcome to study classical music for a well rounded music education (I did it!), but it isn't necessary. You don't need to study ballet to be a good breakdancer, and you don't have to study opera to sing R&B!

5. Can everybody learn to sing (and actually sound good)?

Yes, everyone can find the beauty in their voice by removing bad habits that detract from a pleasant tone. No, I can't make you sound like Beyonce or Adele, but I can help you add clarity, stability, and power to your voice in a healthy way. 

6. How long will it take me to sound good?

That depends on a lot of factors, like where you're starting from and how often you practice. When I started studying CCM (Contemporary Commercial Music) technique, it took about a year for my voice to stabilize, even though I'd studied classically for 10 years. It takes time for your body to adjust. Patience with the process will give you better results. 

7. Is belting bad for my voice?

If you're pushing and straining to get that strong sound, it can result in vocal injury. If your voice is balanced and free of tension, it's totally healthy!  

Piano Lesson Questions

1. Should I learn how to read music or play by ear?

I believe that in order to be a well-rounded musician and communicate with other musicians in a professional setting, you should learn both skills. However our focus depends on your goals. If you want to play classical music or musical theater, you must be able to read. If you want to become a music major in college, you must be able to read. If you want to play jazz, you'll need to read lead sheets. Songwriters don't necessarily have to read, but the more theory you understand, the better. You'll have a wider palette of chords to choose from. If you want to play for the average Pentecostal church, you better know how to play by ear! At some point in the service, someone might be called on to sing a solo and you should be able to find their key and back them up. 

2. How often should I practice?

Practice requirements vary with level of study. Beginners should aim for 3-4 days a week for 15-30 minute sessions. Intermediate students should practice at least 45 minutes, at least 5 days a week. This can be broken up into shorter chunks of time if necessary. Advanced students will need to practice at least an hour a day. Those preparing for auditions and competitions practice for 2-3 hours a day. 

Research has shown that retention of new knowledge drops to 60% after just 24 hours. Therefore, it's not a good idea to wait until the end of the week, then cram practice right before the next lesson. 

3. Am I too old to learn piano?

Absolutely not! Consistent practice is the only requirement. Some will learn faster than others, but there's no race to the finish line. You will be encouraged to move at a pace that's comfortable for you.  

4. I really want my child to learn piano, but he/she don't seem interested. I regret not sticking with piano lessons when I was younger, so quitting is not an option for my child. What can I do to help him/her gain interest?

I will do my best to make your child's lessons interesting, engaging and fun! We'll play music games, and I'll provide incentives for them to practice and complete their pieces! However, if your child really doesn't want to learn piano, please don't force it. Maybe they'd do better at singing, violin, dance, or sports. Learning an instrument requires an investment of time and money. Make a wise investment and allow your child to do an extracurricular activity they enjoy! I promise, it won't hurt my feelings. :) 

5. I can't afford an acoustic piano. What kind of keyboard should I get?

For a beginner I would recommend a keyboard with a minimum of 61 keys. Weighted keys are a requirement. They allow you to adjust their volume with the weight of your fingers. Be sure to purchase a proper stand and an adjustable bench so that you/your child can play with optimal posture.