Preparatory Division Policies

1. Makeup Lessons: no makeup lessons will be given for student absences. Tuition is handled as with any private school, where a day missed is not reimbursed. If the teacher misses a lesson, the lesson will be made up.
2. If you will miss a lesson, please notify the teacher 24 hours before the lesson if possible.
3. There will be no refunds for missed lessons.
4. Please see the explanation of our policy regarding makeup lessons.

1. Preparatory Division students must perform in solo and ensemble recitals as directed by the teacher.
2. Suitable concert attire must be worn (ask your teacher for details).
3. Exemplary concert etiquette must be observed at all times.
4. In keeping with our mission to provide a supportive and professional atmosphere, families are asked to remain for the duration of the recital they choose to attend.

1. Exemplary conduct must be observed at all times by students and their families.
2. Families must not leave students unattended on the University of Idaho campus.

Group Class and Ensemble Participation Requirements

1. All string students who are taking solo lessons must participate in a group class or an ensemble such as Suzuki Group Classes, Cantabile Strings Ensemble, or the Greater Palouse Youth Orchestra, depending on the student's level of achievement.
2. These classes and ensembles are not optional.
3. Please consult with your private teacher about which group or ensemble is right for you. If you have questions, please discuss them with your private teacher.

Practice

1. Practice is essential to progress. Students are required to practice as directed by the private teacher. 
2. The Preparatory Division reserves the right to drop students who do not practice as directed.

Instruments

1. A limited number of violins, violas, cellos and double basses from the Preparatory Division instrument collection are available for students in their first semesters of study on a first come, first served basis. 
2. The charge for borrowing one of these instruments is $75 a semester.
3. Parents of students borrowing Preparatory Division instruments are required to read the Care and Maintenance of Stringed Instruments handout.
4. Starting in Fall 2021, Prep Division instruments will be checked out from the LHSOM instrument room by appointment. For more information, speak to your teacher.

Practice

A regular practice schedule is vitally important to the success of the each student. Each instructor will provide guidelines for effective practice at home. The following items are essential. Please be sure:

• Student has daily access to an instrument that is in good working condition.
• Student maintains the specified daily (5-7 days per week) minimum practice.
• A regular practice routine is established and maintained; we recommend the same time each day, free from interference (phone, TV, siblings, etc.).
• Student follows the assignment carefully.
• All books and materials are brought to lessons/classes. If appropriate, an instrument in good working condition is brought to the lesson/class.
• Parent listens supportively to the practice session periodically. Younger students especially enjoy having a parent present (but not necessarily "directing things") in the room during practicing. Parent sits in on lesson, when instructor deems appropriate.