Guest (above)...There are only three times of the year to change policy. September, because that's when most start their "instruction year"; January, because it fits with the tax calendar; and anytime that a law (or lawsuit) might change your requirements. However, I will never attempt to change the agreed conditions during the instruction year.

I put policy in writing. If my rates increase, I say why. I roll all my expenses into my fees so there are no registration, book, or service fees. Next September my hourly rate will rise to double my half hour rate, but the half hour rate will remain the same, unless costs suddenly escalate. Small towns don't seem to support the higher rates of the big city, but I imagine my overhead is less too.

Other policies?

No cell phones...and I don't use my phone during the lesson either.

No foul language.

Family members (or guardians) are welcome to watch the lesson, quietly.

The studio window (shutters and curtain) is usually open to the front entrance, so parents can feel there is an open accessability to the process.

Student MUST arrive with "lesson sheet" from previous lesson(s), music, and instrument. I will only provide an instrument if the student comes from school, or has repair issues.

I always run on time. If the student is late they get a shortened lesson.

Since I provide tons of paper (scales, exercises, public domain tunes, and music theory stuff) a binder is required. The exception is a student who appears to be nearly illiterate.

Electric students are not allowed to bring effect pedals, as they muddy the tone and disguise evidence of technique problems. To illustrate arrangements and such, my own effects might be used. Otherwise a clean signal is used, through my amps.

I like to think I run a pretty tight ship, but I'm always discovering new approaches to both the instruction and the business. I buy tons of books, talk with other instructors, listen to the needs and wants of individual students, listen to their music, and keep an open, friendly environment. It's hard work, but it's also the best job I've ever had.

Peace, Mooh.