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, cash, and credit available. You will receive invoices and receipts.

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 at 430 Stewart Avenue (east building, closer to the waterfront)

  • Please remove your shoes upon arrival.

  • Text or call anytime if you have trouble with parking or finding the place.

Scheduling & Attendance

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

  • Reschedules are guaranteed to be available in cases of sickness only (more on this below).

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

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

  • Make-up lessons are generally only offered in cases of illness, once per month guaranteed; however, I’ll do my best to accommodate when possible if more than one lesson is missed. It is the responsibility of the student, parent, or guardian to reach out to me to request and arrange a make-up time for missed lessons.

Payment

  • Lesson fees are due monthly, at or before the first lesson of the month. Invoices will be emailed, and if the payment is not received in time, you may receive a reminder email.

  • E-transfer is the preferred method of payment, sent to kentonslessonstudio@gmail.com, but cash and credit card options are also easily available. You will always receive an invoice and a receipt showing it is paid.

  • 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. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.

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

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.

Practice, Materials & 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 ideally receive professional maintenance at least once per year.

  • Acoustic pianos used for regular practice should ideally 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, or finding a quality student/professional instrument.

Extra Learning Opportunities

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

Ending Lessons

  • If you need to pause or stop lessons, please provide at least two weeks’ notice before the next month.