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!

This page outlines the policies that help keep lessons consistent, respectful, and fun for everyone. Please feel free to reach out with any questions.

Lesson Location & Arrival

  • Lessons take place at my home studio in central Nanaimo.

  • Please remove your shoes upon arrival.

  • Text or call anytime if needed.

Scheduling & Attendance

  • Lessons are scheduled weekly unless otherwise arranged. Biweekly options are available on a limited basis.

  • Lessons are only refundable if the teacher is absent (for any reason).

  • Please give as much notice as possible if you need to cancel a lesson.

  • Cancellations due to illness can be rescheduled once per month.

  • Make-up lessons are generally only offered in cases of illness, up to 1 per month; however, 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.

Payment

  • Lesson fees are due monthly, at or before the first lesson of the month. Invoices will be emailed.

  • E-transfer is the preferred method of payment, sent to kentonslessonstudio@gmail.com

  • Alternatively, credit card payments are available through the pay link provided in the invoice email. Cash is also an acceptable form of payment (please bring cash to the first lesson of the month).

  • Late payments may result in a pause in lessons until payment is received.

Communication

  • I’m available by email or text (SMS, WhatsApp or iMessages) for quick questions during the week.

  • Students may request video demonstrations if they need a review of how to practice a concept. Videos will be provided when possible.

  • 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.

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.

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.

  • 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

  • Participation in jazz camps, summer programs, workshops, and other community music experiences (such as concerts and live events) is encouraged.

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 before the next month.