🎹 Forte Piano Studio Policy
Welcome to Forte Piano Studio!
We’re so glad to have you as part of our musical community. Our goal is to create a positive, inspiring, and structured environment where every student can grow at their own pace. This policy helps keep lessons running smoothly and ensures that students, families, and teachers all get the most out of their time together.
Our Philosophy
At Forte Piano Studio, we believe learning music should be joyful, meaningful, and empowering.
Our teaching blends structure and creativity, focusing on healthy technique, expressive playing, and a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.
Lesson Options
Lessons are offered in three formats for your convenience:
- In our home studio – a dedicated, comfortable space in Chicago designed for focus and inspiration.
- In your home – we bring the music to you within the Chicago area.
- Online – connect from anywhere in the world through Zoom or your preferred platform.
Students may choose from the following lesson lengths:
- 30 minutes
- 45 minutes
- 60 minutes
Tuition And Packages
Tuition rates vary based on lesson length, location, and package (Prelude, Sonata, or Concerto).
Tuition is charged as a flat monthly fee, which remains the same regardless of how many weeks fall within the month. This ensures a consistent, reserved weekly time slot for each student.
Payment is due on the first day of each month.
Accepted payment methods: cash, check, credit card, Zelle, or Venmo.
Tuition covers:
- Weekly private lessons.
- Planning and preparation time.
- Recital participation and performance opportunities.
- (For Sonata & Concerto packages) Guided Practice Sessions and 24/7 support.
Guided Practice Sessions
Guided Practice Sessions are short (15-minute) online sessions focused on how to practice rather than what to play.
We sit alongside the student—virtually—showing step-by-step strategies, tackling tricky spots, and helping make effective, structured practice a habit.
Sessions must be scheduled in advance through the student portal and are subject to teacher availability.
Unused Guided Practice Sessions within a month do not roll over, so we encourage families to take advantage of them regularly!
Calendar
Forte Piano Studio follows a year-round calendar, with scheduled breaks for major holidays and occasional teacher vacations.
A detailed calendar—including holidays, recitals, and special events—will be available in the student portal at the beginning of each semester.
Your tuition reserves your weekly time slot year-round, even during months that may have varying numbers of lessons.
Attendance, Cancellations, And Make-Ups
Your lesson time is reserved just for you. Because of this, we are not able to offer credits or refunds for missed lessons. However, we understand that unexpected things happen!
- With at least 24-hour notice, a missed lesson may be eligible for a make-up, pending teacher availability.
- Same-day cancellations or no-shows are not eligible for make-ups.
- In case of teacher absence, a make-up lesson or credit will always be provided.
Make-up lessons may be offered in-person or online, depending on scheduling.
Weather And Illness
If travel or illness prevents an in-person lesson, we’ll gladly switch to an online format whenever possible.
Please notify us promptly if a student feels unwell — keeping everyone healthy helps the studio run smoothly!
In-Home Lesson Guidelines
For in-home lessons, please ensure a quiet, distraction-free space with:
- A well-maintained piano or full-size keyboard
- Adequate lighting
- Seating for the teacher
We ask that pets be secured and that a parent or guardian be present in the home during lessons with minors.
Practice Expectations
Consistent practice is key to musical progress. Students are encouraged to practice a minimum of 20 minutes every day—even short, focused sessions make a big difference!
Younger students may need guidance at home to establish a regular practice routine.
Our goal is to help each student learn how to practice effectively, so music-making stays enjoyable and productive.
Performance Opportunities
We believe performing is a wonderful part of learning music!
Students are invited to participate in studio recitals and other performance events throughout the year. Participation is encouraged but never required—every student is supported at their own comfort level.
Student Portal And Communication
Each student has access to our online portal, where they can view their lesson schedule, practice notes, assignments, payment history, and announcements. Please check the portal regularly for updates and important dates.
Email and text are the best ways to reach us for scheduling or questions between lessons.
Discontinuing Lessons
If you wish to pause or discontinue lessons, please provide at least 30 days’ notice.
This allows us to adjust scheduling and offer your time slot to another student. No refunds or credits are issued for unused lessons once the month has begun.
Thank you for being part of Forte Piano Studio!
We’re excited to make music together and watch each student’s confidence, creativity, and love for music continue to grow.
Get in Touch with Forte Piano Studio
Ready to begin your musical adventure or continue your piano journey? We’d love to meet you!
Book a Trial Lesson
The best way to experience Forte PianoStudio is with a trial lesson. It’s a great opportunity to meet Anna or Pablo, discuss your goals, and see our teaching style firsthand.
Contact Information
Have questions or need more information?
- Email: info@fortepianostudio.com
- Phone: (515) 991-9125Â
- Location: Chicago, IL (exact address provided upon inquiry)
We look forward to hearing from you and helping you or your child unlock the world of music!