Frequently Asked Questions
About the Tuition system
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The tuition program ensures you have a set class each week. Furthermore, the tuition includes follow-up and asynchronous work between classes to maximise your growth as a student. It also includes any extra work I do behind the scenes like learning repertoire to teach you, planning jam sessions, and curating practice calendars to suit your schedule. Additionally, it eliminates the cancellation policy as the built-in 6 bonus or flex weeks give us the flexibility to cancel without cost to you up to 6 times per year.
Drop-in classes on the other hand do not have a set schedule and are designed for those who function primarily on their own like professionals and extremely advanced singers. Drop-ins, therefore, are not provided access to supportive material the way the tuition program does. Drop-in classes cannot be rescheduled or cancelled, once booked.
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No, the tuition payment structure is not based on a per-class calculation. It functions similarly to a school payment model, encompassing not only lessons but also various in-class and outside-class learning support and infrastructure. As a result, the tuition payment covers a comprehensive learning experience rather than being determined on a class-by-class basis. This approach allows a well-rounded educational environment and support system for students.
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The annual tuition fee is a comprehensive package, different from a monthly gym membership or a class-per-class payment. It covers all the services and benefits mentioned earlier. Therefore, pausing for weeks of absence, like with a gym membership, will not be possible. Your slot will be reserved for you, and I will continue to work behind the scenes as though you are still my student, ensuring the continuity of your musical education.
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You are granted 6 Flex Weeks or bonus weeks each year. These weeks are designed to provide flexibility and accommodate unexpected situations such as illness, last-minute cancellations due to travel, work commitments, school events, or any other unforeseen circumstances. Whether it's you or I who needs to reschedule, these 6 weeks are built into our schedule to ensure that you have ample coverage.
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The Flex Weeks provide a total of 6 weeks per year to cover any missed classes for tuition students, providing both you and me flexibility.
In addition, 4 group make-up classes (one per quarter) give an additional 4 weeks of flexibility if you need to cancel more than 6 weeks.
Additionally, you can still access the asynchronous support system to receive guidance and feedback from our instructors, ensuring you stay on track with your learning journey.
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If we happen to miss more than 10 weeks within a year, I completely understand that life can get in the way. If there is a cancellation on the class calendar and a spot opens up, you may have the opportunity to make up for the missed session. However, please keep in mind that this option cannot be guaranteed as it depends on the availability of open slots each week.
Rest assured, even if you can't make up for missed classes, our tuition system offers more than just weekly classes. You will still have access to our extensive video library and asynchronous touch-bases, ensuring that you can continue your learning journey and stay connected even when you have to miss a class.
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Asynchronous support is an essential part of our program that benefits your learning journey in several ways:
1. **Optimal Practice:** With asynchronous support, you can continue to practice effectively and make progress even between regular classes. It allows you to stay engaged with your learning materials and maintain a consistent practice routine.
2. **Personalized Guidance:** You'll receive individualized feedback and guidance through tools like the Marco Polo app, which empowers you to refine your skills and address specific areas of improvement.
3. **Flexibility:** Life can be unpredictable, and asynchronous support offers the flexibility to access resources and stay connected to your learning process at your convenience, fitting around your schedule.
4. **Valuable Resources:** You gain access to a video library with warm-ups, vocal exercises, alankars and varisais, educational videos, and songs, providing you with a wealth of supplemental learning materials.
By utilizing asynchronous support, you can make the most out of your learning experience, enjoy continuous progress, and receive personalized attention to achieve your musical goals effectively.
About Technical Consultations
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The purpose of our consultation is to provide a comprehensive approach to vocal training specifically tailored for Indian classical music. By integrating voice science principles with the stylistic features of this tradition, we aim to enhance vocal technique, maintain vocal health, and achieve authentic renditions of Indian classical music.
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Our consultation is designed for three main groups:
Indian classical music teachers and their students who may be experiencing challenges such as range reduction, vocal strain, or difficulty in developing vocal agility.
Western voice teachers with clients from an Indian classical music background who seek guidance on how to assist their students effectively.
Individuals interested in a cross-cultural exchange of knowledge and techniques related to Indian classical music and vocal training.
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Participants will gain valuable insights and techniques to address common challenges in Indian classical vocal training. These include improving vocal range, reducing strain, developing vocal agility, and mastering authentic renditions of Indian classical compositions.
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Participants have three attendance options:
Teachers can attend alone to gain insights and techniques to implement in their teaching.
Teachers and students can attend together to facilitate direct guidance and instruction.
Students can attend alone to receive personalized training, with a progress report provided to their teacher after the session.
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Yes, all sessions are recorded to allow participants to revisit the material covered and continue their learning outside of the consultation.
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Yes, follow-up sessions (30 minutes) are recommended 4-6 weeks after the initial consultation to review progress, address any further questions or concerns, and provide additional guidance if needed
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The consultation focuses on integrating vocal technique principles with the stylistic features of Indian classical music, ensuring a holistic approach to vocal training that is tailored to the specific needs of this tradition. This bridging of knowledge empowers teachers and students to navigate the unique vocal qualities and techniques required for Indian classical music effectively.