Fees
- By paying tuition fees, you are reserving a place for your child at Bella Sonata Music Studio for the year. Fees are payable in advance each term. Any fees paid after the due date will incur a $15 late fee.
- Beginner to Grade 1 level: Minimum 30-minute lesson, $44 per lesson invoiced for the term in advance
- Grade 2-4 level: Minimum 45-minute lesson, $66 per lesson invoiced for the term in advance
- Grade 5+ level: Minimum 60-minute lesson, $88 per lesson invoiced for the term in advance
- In addition to tuition, a $50 annual registration fee per student is charged. This fee covers the cost of online memberships, digital sheet music, trophies, prizes, and concerts for the benefit of students.
- Music books are supplied by the teacher as needed, and the cost will be invoiced to the fee payer.
- Please note that annual rate increases should be expected. These increases are based on recommendations from the local Music Teachers Association and reflect ongoing professional development and the enhancement of my teaching skills. The fee payer will be notified in writing in December of any rate changes that will take effect in the following year.
Attendance
- In 2026 a no catch-up lesson policy continues to apply for all absences.
- The lesson time is reserved exclusively for your child for the entire term, and therefore, payment for the term is required regardless of attendance. Rest assured, I will continue to work for your child even if they are unable to attend the lesson.
- In the rare event that I need to cancel a lesson, you may choose either a catch-up lesson or a credit on your next invoice.
Practice & Performance
- Parental supervision is essential in establishing a consistent practice routine. Parents are expected to review the lesson with the student at home and ensure that practice instructions are followed correctly. Additionally, parents are responsible for providing a high-quality instrument for the student to practice on and ensuring that it is tuned annually.
- Students are expected to maintain a regular practice schedule. This schedule is not intended to be excessive or burdensome, but rather consistent and aligned with the practice instructions provided in the lesson notes for that week.
- Throughout the school year, regular performances are organised to support the growth and development of students. It is expected that students will make every effort to attend, and that families will actively support and encourage their participation.
Termination
- Families are expected to commit to lessons for the full school year. If unforeseen circumstances require a student to discontinue lessons mid-year, four weeks notice must be provided, or the equivalent lesson fee will be charged in lieu of notice.
- Any decision to terminate lessons should be accompanied by an appropriate amount of discussion between us. It is beneficial for the student to have a “final lesson” to ensure a positive conclusion and a sense of closure.
- While my students are important to me, I reserve the right to terminate lessons for consistent poor or uncooperative attitudes, a continual lack of preparation, or repeated lateness or non-payment of term fees. Before any termination occurs, parents will be notified, and ample time will be given to address and resolve the situation.
Choosing an Instrument
Investing in a high-quality new or second-hand piano is essential for protecting your commitment to piano lessons and helps your student create beautiful music!
There are three main types of pianos/keyboards to consider:
- Keyboards: Keyboards like the one shown here are not suitable for piano lessons at Bella Sonata Music Studio. They lack a full 88-key range, as found on standard pianos, and the flimsy stand is better suited for playing while standing rather than sitting. Investing in a keyboard like this is a false economy, as the novelty of playing on it often fades quickly.
- Digital Pianos: A digital piano with 88 weighted keys, at least one fixed pedal, and a sturdy frame is a good option for students in their first 1-2 years of lessons. However, digital pianos can depreciate in value quickly as newer models are introduced. You can expect to pay between $750 – $2,000 for a good second-hand digital piano.
- Upright Pianos (Acoustic Pianos): The best option for replicating the rich, beautiful sound created during lessons is an upright (acoustic) piano. Yamaha and Kawai are excellent brands produced for the Australian climate. When well-maintained and regularly played, acoustic pianos retain their value over time. A good-quality second-hand upright can cost between $1,500 – $3,000.
