Studio Policy

The following is what I ask my students and parents to commit to as part of our violin lessons and what I am committed to providing the student and parent.


Teacher Commitments

  • Punctual with the lesson times and will come prepared to violin lessons.

  • Use appropriate exercises and suggestions to improve technique, musicianship, and performance.

  • Seek to build a relationship with each student and family knowing how crucial that is to the learning process.

  • Observe and adapt to the different way each student learns.

  • Honestly communicate with the student (and/or parent if applicable) how the student is progressing in their violin lessons.

  • Pursue growth in teaching skills and knowledge through reading books, online resources, and attending workshops and conferences.

  • Practice regularly and seek to improve violin playing skills.

Student Commitments

  • Arriving on time and coming prepared to violin lessons with instrument, books, lesson notebook, pencil, and any other supplies needed.

  • Committed to regular practice at least 4-6 days a week, as it is essential to any musical growth.

  • The time required for practice depends heavily on the age and ability of the student and will therefore be discussed with the student on a case by case basis.

Parental Commitments (if applicable)

  • For students ages 4-6, parents are welcome to sit in the violin lesson during the first few weeks. After this time period it is recommended that the parent sit out so that their child can learn to take responsibility for their learning and start to build a relationship with the teacher.

  • Committed to being involved with home practice and helping your child foster daily practice rhythms.

  • Responsible for renting or purchasing an instrument for their child so that one is available for violin lessons and practice.

  • Responsible for purchasing books or accessories that are necessary for their child to learn.

Private Violin Lesson Policy

  • Violin lessons take place weekly and are offered both in person and online.

  • Violin lessons focus on improving the student’s technique, their knowledge of music theory, and overall musicianship.

  • The student and/or parent will be notified when the student needs to purchase new music books or accessories.

  • Lesson notebooks are required for each student and cost $6. Students will use the notebook to write down what they should be practicing during the week.

  • Please contact Sophia Hsiao Studio for our current lesson rates.

  • Monthly invoices are due by the first lesson of the month. There is a $10 late fee if payment is not received within 7 days of the first lesson.

  • Checks or Chase Quick Pay electronic payments are acceptable.

Cancellation Policy

  • If a student needs to cancel a lesson due to sickness or scheduling conflicts, the lesson will not be made up. Starting Fall 2022, make-up lessons will no longer be offered and instead, you will receive a credit for the canceled lesson on your next monthly invoice.

  • Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled lesson. For cancellations made less than 24 hours before the lesson, payment is required unless the student is sick or there is a last minute emergency. Payment is required for missed lessons including forgetting about the lesson, failing to notify me that you can’t come to your lesson, or scheduling conflicts that could have been avoided.

Termination Policy

  • The teacher may terminate lessons due to poor behavior, failure to commit to practice, or failure to comply with the contents of the studio policy.

  • If the parent and student wish to terminate lessons, they must communicate this with the teacher two weeks before the desired end date so that appropriate steps can be taken.

Recital Policy

  • Studio recitals are held twice a year to celebrate the hard work that students have put into lessons. Participation is expected in order to get the full experience of learning and performing music.

  • Studio recitals take place at the Arlington Heights Memorial Library and family members and guests are invited to come.

  • Dress is formal for students.

  • Recital songs will be assigned a few months before each recital.