James Hawes In-Home Lessons, Greater Indianapolis Area IN, 46069
Instruments:Clarinet, Ear Training, Flute, Guitar, Horn, Piano, Saxophone, Theory, Trumpet
Styles:Classical, Kids
Levels:Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced
Experience:25 years
Rate:$30 / hr
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Personal Statement
I hold the highest standards of accountability for my students’ learning. My goal is to provide each student with individualized instruction on the techniques of their instrument beyond what may be provided through school, in order to enhance the students enjoyment of participation in school and community music that will, hopefully, remain with them well into adulthood. Even more than technique on their instrument, I strive to help each student find the ability to express themselves through music, to share what makes each one of them special through the vehicle of music, and to encourage their own uniqueness to come through in not only music, but in any endeavor they may pursue.
Lesson Policies and Procedures:
In-Home Lessons
We provide our lessons in the students home for several reasons, primarily to provide both the student and the parents with a convenient and enjoyable experience. Students are comfortable having their lesson in the same place that they do their regular practice. I as a teacher can gain valuable insight into students’ practice habits. You save time not having to drive back and forth to your teacher’s studio. This means parents have more time for the things they need to do and students have more time to do what they need to do, like homework, etc.
Free Consultation
If you are interested in lessons, my first step is usually to meet with the parents and student in your home. There is no fee for this consultation. At this time I can go over all the details with you and you will have an opportunity to meet me and ask any questions you may have.
Tuition
Tuition for weekly lessons is $20. per half hour lesson or $30. per hour lesson.
Tuition is due in advance, paid monthly no later than by the first week of the month. If you will not be attending your lesson for any reason, payment is still due on time. Please pay in person, on-line, or by mail.
Late payment fee is $10.00 per month after the 7th of each month. Returned check fee is $20.00 plus any bank charges incurred. If payment is not made within 14 days of due date, lessons will be suspended until payment is made.
Refund and Termination Policy
2 weeks notice is required for students terminating lessons for any reason. Following the termination notification the full amount of tuition you had paid will be refunded minus two weeks.
Education / Training
I have been performing and teaching music for over 25 years. After having piano lessons as a young child, I began studying both French Horn and Classical Guitar at the age of 12. At that time I had two great mentors, John Miller of the Indianapolis Symphony and Joylyn Hague at University of Indianapolis. I hold a Bachelors degree in Music Performance in French Horn and a Masters degree in Music Education from the Indiana University School of Music. At Indiana University I studied with celebrated horn players Philip Farkas and Michael Hatfield and received certification in K-12 instrumental music as well as Kodaly Method certification while continuing to study classical guitar with Joylyn Hague at University of Indianapolis and Brent Terrell at Butler University.
My first teaching job after college was with a company called Music on the Move, where I traveled once a week to 12 different private (mostly Catholic and Christian) k-8 schools and I taught individual and small group lessons in brass, winds, strings, piano, and guitar, as well as general music. From there I went on to teach band and orchestra for several years at Brebeuf Preparatory School in Indianapolis. At this time I was also performing frequently with a classical guitar quartet, The Franklin Quartet, and was listed in Who’s Who of American Teachers. After 6 years of teaching at Brebeuf, I owned a tutoring service, Head of the Class Educational Services, where I traveled to students homes for academic tutoring and help with home school instruction. With Head of the Class I gained a lot of valuable experience helping students with learning disabilities and worked particularly with many students struggling with Aspergers Syndrome. During this time I worked with many home schools and gained much appreciation for the achievements and challenges that home schools face.
I took a few years off from music and teaching and worked in some different sales positions. I wasnt happy in that role, missing the music and missing the students. I have now returned to teaching music and currently focus my energy on playing guitar and teaching private music lessons.
Over the years of working with students of all ages and various backgrounds, my greatest strength has been building excellent relationships with my students. Experience has taught me that is the first and formost important requirement for students’ success. I have been fortunate to study with several great teachers and perform with many great musicians. It is my greatest joy in life to be able to pass that down to my students.