Jassen answers Frequently Asked Questions
Are weekly lessons OK?
Yes, weekly lessons are ideal. You will get the most benefit from a regular once-a-week lesson.
What about internet lessons?
So much of the available information needs to be personalized or culled/collated. Nothing beats a teacher who directs your learning for exactly what you need now, and encourages your future development. Sadly, pre-recorded internet lessons aren't specific for the student and apps that listen don't give you the right feedback and encouragement! You can't beat a patient, caring and experienced teacher whether through Zoom etc or in person.
What about the COVID-19 pandemic?
When 'taking stock' about the important things in life, music gives a great solace for many people. For our safety, I've completed an eLearning course in Infection Control Training - COVID-19.
How are your teaching terms arranged?
I'm generally aligned with the NSW School terms. This is mostly 10 or 11 weeks and then we have a break for the first or second week of the school holidays.
What times do you have available?
It's best to contact me. Sometimes I have a vacancy in a peak spot (late afternoon/ evening/ weekend) or can more readily find a daytime appointment. It's best if we discuss diary options.
Can I bring a friend or relative to my lesson?
Yes, spouses, parents, friends, children, and grandchildren are all welcome. One three-year-old granddaughter joined in brilliantly with the vocal exercises!
Can I purchase a Gift Certificate for someone?
Yes. It's personalised and can be posted or emailed to you to give to your loved one. It makes a fun, unique and enriching gift.
What are your payment methods/terms?
Cash, cheque, EFT (bank transfer) or Credit cards including: AMEX, MasterCard, VISA, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and eftpos cards that have a chip. Payment is at the time of the lesson or in advance for 10-weeks. Discounts are given for paying in advance for the 10-weeks, please enquire re: discount & payment method.
What is your Cancellation Policy for lessons?
A minimum of 24-hours notice or full payment for the lesson for under 24-hours notice. This is fair for both the student and teacher. It's a fact that we most often know if we're unwell or have urgent matters to attend to, and giving 24-hours notice enables the lesson time to be filled by another student. Anything less than 24-hours notice doesn't give enough time for the lesson to be filled, and will necessitate the full payment for the lesson missed.
What ages do you teach?
From 6 to 96!
Should music tutors have a NSW Working With Children Check?
Yes, mine is current and the clearance number is WWC0659172E which can be verified on the NSW Government website.
I'm a professional speaker. What can you do for my voice?
A great deal. Just some aspects of voice training: posture and breathing techniques which help to enrich the voice and also help with nerves, to vocal health and techniques of placement and projection. I've helped many professional speakers, including television presenters, teachers, trainers etc. As a testament to my teaching, I've received students from Speech Therapists, and coached a Speech Therapist to sing at her wedding!
What is your Privacy Policy?
Any personal contact details that you send through this secure website, will be treated confidentially and will not be disclosed to third parties.
What are some of the benefits of music lessons?
There are lots of benefits, and it's an area that is studied scientifically. Some recent links on the benefits to the brain, general health and wellbeing:
Your brain on piano!
Singers' brains are different!
Video on singing and psychology
