Studio Policy
Policies and Fees
2026-27
Effective September 1, 2026
TUITION
Tuition is a yearly fee, indicating a commitment to study for the entire academic year. For your convenience the tuition may be paid monthly (monthly payments, however, do not reflect the number of lessons in a month). MONTHLY payments are due the first lesson of each month, September-May. The following monthly payment plans are available:
Monthly Tuition Plans – 9 Equal payments
30 minute weekly lesson - $94.00 per month
45 minute weekly lesson - $141.00 per month
Included in Fees Not included in Fees
32 Private Lessons Guild Fee
Music Contest or Competition Fees
Students who are Level 2 or beyond will receive a 45 minute weekly lesson. If you prefer, payment may be handled by mail or online through PayPal. Checks should be made payable to Connie Tatum. A late fee of $10.00 will be added to any payment received more than one week late.TYPES OF LESSONS
Lessons are a combination of in person and virtual.
MULTIPLE STUDENT DISCOUNTS
Families who have more than one student registered in piano lessons through The Heart of Piano Conservatory will receive the following tuition discounts:
2 Students: 10%
3 or more Students: 15%
MUSIC
There is no charge for music that students receive from me, and students may keep their music permanently.
REGISTRATION
A $100.00 annual Registration Fee reserves the student's place in the conservatory. It is due in August. This nonrefundable fee covers the cost of the student’s music and assignment book, plus flash cards, music activities, awards, etc., that are used in the student's lessons throughout the year.
CALENDAR
You will be informed late in August about specific lesson times. Please click on "Calendar" above to view the schedule of special events and vacations.
SUMMER STUDY
Summer study is not included in the academic year program. Summer lessons will be $26.44 per 30 minute lesson, and $39.66 per 45 minute lesson, payable the first lesson of the month for that month. Information concerning summer study will be sent to parents in May.
STUDIO ACTIVITIES
All students are encouraged to participate in the Guild Auditions and the Spring Recital. Several recitals and other events are available each year in which students may also choose to participate, many sponsored by The Peoria Area Music Teachers Association.
ATTENDANCE
No lesson will be extended for a student who is not ready to begin on time. Parents are welcome but not required at lessons. I expect a call if a student must miss a lesson, examination, recital, or any other scheduled studio activity, as described below.
Virtual lessons may be requested for illness or bad weather.
I will consider an absence due to illness or bad weather “excused” if I am notified as soon as possible. For any other reason, I will consider an absence “excused” if I receive notification at least 1 week in advance. All other absences will be considered “unexcused.”
MAKE-UP LESSONS and TUITION ADJUSTMENTS
Make-up lessons may be arranged for any absence. Make-up lessons for unexcused absences will be $26.44 for each 30 minute lesson and $39.66 for each 45 minute lesson.
There are 35 scheduled lessons during the Academic year. When the number of lessons that the student will receive, including unexcused absences, falls below the 32 guaranteed lessons, I will adjust a monthly tuition payment by $26.44 for each 30 minute lesson and $39.66 for each 45 minute lesson. If a student receives more than the 32 guaranteed lessons, there will be no extra charge.
TUITION CREDITS
Anyone who writes a short testimonial relating to the piano teaching program of The Heart of Piano Conservatory will receive a $10.00 credit toward their next tuition payment. I reserve the right to edit testimonials to fit on my website.
Anyone who refers a student to The Heart of Piano Conservatory who registers will receive a $25.00 credit toward their next tuition payment. I recommend that you refer anyone that is interested in further information about piano lessons to www.heartofpiano.com.
DISCONTINUANCE OF PIANO STUDY
Lessons will be permanently discontinued for the following reasons:
1. During any one semester, a student misses three lessons which are considered unexcused absences.
2. During any one semester, a student receives 3 red dots on their practice sheet.
If a student discontinues lessons during the academic year, I require a month's notice. If it becomes necessary for a student to drop without giving me any previous notice, I will compute the final tuition payment as if the student had received the additional month of lessons. I also reserve the right to drop a student at any time if I feel it is best.