Katherine Lee’s Piano Studio Policy
2025-2026


TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

Private piano lessons focus primarily on the development of technique, musicianship, and artistry.  A solid technical foundation comes from developing dexterity and healthy habits, while musicianship covers music reading skills and analysis.  Artistry brings it all together with personal interpretations and an understanding in performance practice.  The goal is to instill the discipline in students to utilize these skills in practice and performance in a rewarding manner.
 
 
LESSONS & TUITION
Private piano lessons are given weekly in increments of 30, 45, 60, and 90 minutes, depending on level and age.  As a guideline, most students take 60-minute lessons.  All students interested in participating in the Certificate of Merit Exams are required to take at least 45-minute lessons, though 60-minute lessons are recommended.
 
A non-refundable tuition payment (Venmo, Zelle, check, or cash) is due at the first lesson of each month.  Rates are as follows:
 
30 min = $80        45 min = $95        60 min = $110        90 min = $140
 
NEW Tuition Rates (Effective January 1, 2026)
 
To keep up with inflation and the general cost of living, my rates will be increasing by $5 beginning on January 1, 2026.  Those rates are as follows:
 
30 min = $85        45 min = $100        60 min = $115        90 min = $145
 
ATTENDANCE
Students are expected to attend each weekly lesson of the year, and to be on time for lessons, as no additional time can be given for tardiness.  Absence notices and rescheduling requests must be made at least 24 hours in advance – any lessons missed without prior notice will NOT be made up and no refunds will be issued.
 
In the case of illness or emergency, please contact me as soon as possible, and the lesson will be rescheduled at my availability.  In the event that I must cancel due to illness or emergency, the lesson will be rescheduled to a later time.  Vacation schedules and coordinating plans will be announced accordingly.
 
EXPECTATIONS
Students are expected to practice daily.  The amount of time depends on each student’s ability to practice effectively (it is one of my missions to work with each student on efficient practicing!).  As a general guideline, early beginners should plan to focus on the DAILY aspect of practice, intermediate students should practice at minimum 30 minutes a day, and advanced students should practice at minimum 1 hour a day.
 
Parental involvement in practice sessions is highly encouraged for younger students.  As students get older, independent practice is important and we will be talking more about effective and efficient practicing.  Parents should help students establish and stick to a healthy practice routine, and see that practice time is interruption-free.
 
Each student MUST attend at least TWO performances each year in order to guarantee studio enrollment for the following year.  These performances can be anything from solo piano recitals to orchestral concerts.  Please e-mail me proof of your attendance along with a quick write-up on your experience.  I cannot stress enough the importance of exposure to performances outside of our studio events.  Through concerts, students (and parents!) will develop an ear for classical music and really begin to see where their hard work in front of the piano could take them.
 
STUDIO ACTIVITIES
 
STUDIO CLASSES are a great opportunity for students to perform their pieces and receive feedback from their fellow peers.  Here in Redwood Shores, I am still working on bringing these back – these will be announced once I work out all scheduling logistics. What will help bring these back soon is letting me know of interest in these events!
 
STUDIO RECITALS are a celebration of each student’s dedication and progress throughout the year.  These semi-formal events are a Studio Milestone for each student – as such, participation is mandatory.  Studio recitals are given in partnership with Alison Lee’s piano studio – dates and locations are as announced below.  I understand that it’s a bit of a trek for both recitals – please plan ahead for these events and MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
 
WINTER STUDIO RECITAL:  Saturday, December 6th at 4:00pm
@ The Lee Residence - 1277 Tolteca Court, Fremont, CA 94539
 
SPRING STUDIO RECITAL:  Sunday, May 17th at 11:00am
@ Berkeley Piano Club – 2724 Haste Street, Berkeley, CA 94704
 
 
CERTIFICATE OF MERIT EXAM
 
Students are encouraged (but not required) to participate in the Certificate of Merit (CM) Exam, organized by the Music Teachers’ Association of California (MTAC).  The exam, ranging from Levels Prep through Advanced, consists of two main parts:
 

  1. Performance Exam – Technique, Sight Reading, Repertoire (2-5 pieces depending on level)
  2. Written Test – Music Theory & Ear Training
 
2025-2026 year registration deadlines are Sept 30, 2025 so please do let me know if you are interested ASAP! Otherwise, anyone other interested folks will be planning for the 2026-2027 exams!
 

FURTHER MUSICAL OPPORTUNITIES
 
There are several performance opportunities for students outside of our studio events and recitals.  These are great if anyone is looking for additional performing experiences or to receive feedback:
  • Certificate of Merit – previously mentioned, this is a popular program with piano students all over California due to its curriculum and exam offerings.
  • Competitions – great for setting goals/deadlines and receiving feedback from other teachers and musicians
  • Summer Music Camps and Festivals – excellent ways for pianists to meet other musicians and teachers
  • Chamber Music – I could talk about chamber music all day long.  With chamber music, students learn that playing the piano doesn’t have to be a solitary activity! Make music, and friends! If interested, please let me know.  Fun fact: I happen to be the director of a chamber music festival.