Studio Policy
Private Instructor: Kenton Willem (piano, saxophone, flute, voice, music theory, composition, arranging, conducting)
Email (for payments & contact): kentonslessonstudio@gmail.com
Phone: 250-327-9622
Payment method: E-transfer only
Studio location: Central Nanaimo
Welcome!
I’m so glad you’re here. This page outlines the policies that help keep lessons consistent, respectful, and fun for everyone. Please read carefully and feel free to reach out with any questions.
Lesson Location & Arrival
Lessons take place at my home studio in central Nanaimo. The address will be provided once a decision has been made to begin lessons.
Please remove your shoes upon arrival.
For first-time students, use the buzzer at the front door. The buzzer number is 314. Use the up/down arrows to find it. The screen will display “K. Willem.”
After your first lesson, I’ll show you an easier patio entrance for future visits.
Scheduling & Attendance
Lessons are scheduled weekly unless otherwise arranged.
Please give at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations.
Make-up lessons are only offered in cases of illness and are not guaranteed. I’ll do my best to accommodate when possible. It is the responsibility of the student, parent, or guardian to reach out to me to request and arrange a make-up time.
If a student is sick but feels up to learning, we can do the lesson over Zoom instead.
No-shows or same-day cancellations are not eligible for a make-up or refund.
Payment
Lesson fees are due monthly at the beginning of each month.
E-transfer is the preferred method of payment, sent to kentonslessonstudio@gmail.com (please let me know if you need to arrange an alternate method of payment).
Late payments may result in a pause in lessons until payment is received.
Communication
I’m available by email or text for quick questions during the week.
For longer questions or in-depth support, let’s talk during your lesson or schedule a separate time.
Lesson Recordings
Students are welcome to take voice memos or audio-only recordings of their lessons for personal practice and review.
These recordings are for personal use only and may not be shared with others, except with a parent or guardian if the student is a minor.
Respect & Learning Environment
This is a creative, inclusive space where mistakes are welcome and all identities are respected.
I support each student’s unique musical voice and learning goals—whether you’re playing for fun or working toward something big.
Practice & Instrument Care
Consistent practice is essential for progress. I help students set meaningful, realistic goals each week.
Students should bring all required materials: sheet music, band music, lesson journal, and their instrument.
Saxophones and flutes should receive professional maintenance at least once per year. Instruments that are not maintained often leak or have other issues, and it makes it difficult to tell whether a problem is coming from the student’s technique or the instrument.
Acoustic pianos used for regular practice should be tuned twice per year.
Well-maintained instruments inspire consistent growth and enjoyment.
Please let me know if you need assistance finding a professional woodwind or piano technician.
Extra Learning Opportunities
I encourage participation in jazz camps, workshops, and other community music experiences. They’re a great way to grow!
Emergency & Health Situations
Please provide an emergency contact when you begin lessons.
If a student becomes unwell or injured during a lesson, I will contact their parent/guardian (if applicable) or emergency contact immediately.
Minor issues (like a headache or fatigue) will be handled with care, and the lesson may be paused or ended early if needed. Please don’t be afraid to ask for what you need.
Ending Lessons
If you need to pause or stop lessons, please provide at least two weeks’ notice.
I reserve the right to end the teaching relationship if expectations are not being met (e.g. repeated no-shows, late payments, etc.).