Policies & Information
Dr. Cook's Piano Studio
Dr. Cook offers classical piano instruction that cultivates artistry, technical proficiency, awareness of the rich history of classical performance, and an appreciation for the interconnected arts. His instruction stresses that technique is simply a means to an end and that informed, creative, and unhindered expression is the ultimate goal of a great performer.
Utilizing the Zoom Video Conferencing platform and the Google Classroom, Cook provides a complete collegiate-level studio experience for students including videos, documents, and multimedia resources to supplement the live one-on-one lessons.
Each semester culminates in a public recital highlighting the students' progress.
In-Person Piano Lessons
Dr. Cook offers in-person piano lessons at his home piano studio in North Tempe. Cook's studio is conveniently located near the Dorsey/Apache Light Rail and Streetcar stops as well as 202, 60, and I10 Freeway exits. Contact Dr. Cook for location and schedule availability.
Online Piano Lessons
Due to the evolution of technology, this lesson format is now equally as effective as in-person lessons. In fact, online lessons offer added benefits. Because transportation is not a factor, online lessons offer greater scheduling flexibility and less negative environmental impact. Additionally, and in light of recent global health concerns, online lessons are safer than traditional in-person lessons. Each semester will culminate in a public recital for all local students. Alternative performance formats are available for those not comfortable with in-person recitals.
Zoom Piano Lesson Tutorial
All that is needed to participate in online lessons is a Zoom account, internet access, and a computer, tablet, or smart phone. For more information, please view the Zoom tutorial below:
2022-2023 Studio Policies
A monthly payment plan spreads the cost of semester tuition over 6 months.
The academic year includes 2 semesters of lessons and recitals.
It is important to note that there will be twelve payments due every month of the year, starting in July and finishing in June. Payments are preferred on or about the 1st and due by the 15th.
While no lessons are taught during the month of July, the first tuition payment for the fall semester will be due that month.
Cash or checks made out to Dr. Stephen Cook are accepted. Payments using Zelle, Venmo other bank transfer methods are encouraged.
Attendance
Parents reserve specific sessions. Those times cannot be offered to other students. Therefore, the expectation is that your weekly music lesson appointment takes priority when scheduling other personal appointments.
Makeup lesson policies
Due to scheduling constraints and travel expenses, a maximum of 2 valid makeup lessons are available per calendar semester.
Makeup lessons will only be available online
Lessons not made up by the end of the semester will be forfeited
Lessons cancelled without 24 hour notice will be forfeited (no makeup and no refund). Exceptions to the 24 hour notice rule will be made in the case of sudden illness and family emergencies.
No makeup lessons will be provided after the last day of the semester.
It is the responsibility of the parent to initiate requests for make-up lessons.
There will be no lessons during holidays listed on the school calendar.
Early withdraw
If you decide to withdraw from lessons, we ask that you consult your instructor before making your final decision so that we can accommodate your needs we will refund the prorated remainder of your tuition. Please allow up to 3 months for the refund to reach you.
Contacting Your Instructor
You may contact your instructor via phone, text, or email at stephencookpianist@gmail.com, or telephone at 773-454-2509
Recitals
Recitals are scheduled in advance and are included in the cost of tuition. Because the teacher incurs expenses for the recital, the recital may not be exchanged for an extra lesson. All students are expected to participate. If students are not comfortable participating in an in-person recital, alternative options will be provided. We work all semester in preparation for these recitals, so it is a great benefit to the student to attend. It gives her/him an opportunity to show you, their parent/guardian what they have achieved and it also gives us an opportunity to show them how proud we are of their progress and efforts. Please make every effort to have the student’s schedule free for these dates. Any questions regarding the recitals should be directed to your teacher.
Changes in Policy
These policies are written in an attempt to cover many of the questions that may come up regarding expectations. Please be aware that these policies are subject to change, and we will advise you with an acknowledgment form that we will ask you to sign if any changes are made.
Dr. Stephen Cook
