FAQ & Policies
Posted on January 2, 2012
If you have questions about the studio or our policies, this post answers some common questions:
LESSONS
Do I need a drumset in order to take lessons?
No. It would be a good idea for you or your child to take a few lessons before spending money on a drumset. If you or your child is confident about continuing lessons, then a drumset should be purchased for the home. ZFDS can help guide you when the time comes for you to buy a drumset.
Am I too old or is my child too young for lessons?
We start teaching students at age 3. The studio has students of all ages and levels, from adults to very young children. Don’t hesitate to sign up for one lesson and see how it goes. If it does not work out, there is no obligation after the first lesson. Our student population varies from adult business professionals looking to try out drumming for the first time, very young students playing an instrument for the first time, high school kids getting ready for college auditions and students from elementary through high school who just want to play for fun.
How long are the lessons?
ZFDS has weekly half hour and hour lessons. Most students take weekly half hour lessons, but many adults and advanced students will take a weekly hour lesson. The teachers can help you decide what would be best.
What do I need to bring to lessons?
You will need a notebook with lined paper; drumsticks or you can buy them at ZFDS and if you have taken lessons in the past, bring any material you have worked on.
PRACTICE
What is the recommended practice time per week?
The amount of practice time depends on the age and level of the student. It is very tough for 3-6yr olds to go home and practice, the point of lessons at that age is exposure. The children are exposed to different concepts in the lessons that will keep them excited, no pressure; the majority of the learning takes place during the lessons, but playing at home is encouraged. Students in grades 4-12 are encouraged to have regular and consistent practice sessions at home. It is better to spread out the practice sessions throughout the week, rather than practicing for an hour or two once a week. Every student will have a notebook that the teacher will write assignments in for that week. Adult students will do the best they can and that is ok. Life is busy and drum lessons are meant to be a fun escape from everyday life, not an added stress.
STUDIO POLICIES
Registration Registration may take place at any time of the year. The year is broken up into two semesters with a flexible summer schedule.
Payments and Prices The studio collects for four lessons in advance. Advanced payment is due on every fourth lesson for the next group of four lessons. Tuition may be paid with check or cash and can be deposited in the payment box in the waiting room. An email reminder will be sent out the week before you owe for your next block of four lessons. There is a $20 fee for any bounced check. Zach Field Drum Studios reserves the right to suspend or discontinue instruction to any student who has not made payment by the 2 lesson.
Refunds/Credits There will be no refunds or credits given, unless there is a prolonged illness or injury.
Teacher Absences Lessons will be made up for teacher absences or studio closures only. If a teacher is unable to make a lesson, the studio will have a substitute for that specific day and time or the teacher will make up the lesson.
Student Absences If you cannot attend your regularly scheduled lesson, you will be charged, no exceptions.
Summer Schedule The summer schedule will be a flex schedule, requiring one week notice for a cancellation in order to not be charged. You will need to call or email the studio with any schedule changes or cancellations.
Holiday, Vacations and Snow Days Please see the Zach Field Drum Studios calendar for details on holidays and vacation. The studio is closed most national holidays and school vacations. In case of inclement weather, all morning classes will be cancelled if the Newburyport Schools are closed. Please call the studio to find out about afternoon and evening classes, there will be a message on the answering machine with this information.
