Lessons   |   Music Lesson Policies
Music instruction for a student grades 2-12 includes 27 half-hour lessons and weekly after-school orchestra rehearsals. When possible, lessons are during the school day at a student’s school in small groups or individually. Students may take the bus from their elementary schools to the Robert J. Elkington Middle School (RJEMS) to attend orchestra practice at 3:30 pm in the band room. Cellos and basses are not allowed on school buses and must be dropped off at the school by parents and guardians.

Fees
Yearly fees are $480 for one student and $432 for each additional student from the same family. The tuition may be paid in one lump sum or be averaged into 8 monthly payments of $60 ($54 for each additional student in a family). The first payment is due October 15 and the final on May 15.  Payment in full in October and promptness are greatly appreciated.

The IOS program is a full-year commitment. The tuition is for the full year and must be paid even if the student drops the lessons.

Financial Assistance
IOSP has a limited number of partial scholarships and loans available each year. Families must apply for financial aid by June 30. Please contact the IOSP office for information on income guidelines. After the June deadline, applications will be placed on a waiting list. Some families also may be eligible for the Minnesota Education Tax Credit program.

Registration   |   Registration Form
Registrations submitted in the spring of each year guarantee a spot for next year’s program.  Fall registrations are processed on a first come, first served basis. Families owing any tuition or rental fees from the previous year will not be allowed to register for next year’s classes until payment is fully made.

Instrument Rental   |   Instrument Care Instructions
IOS has instruments available for rental.

Violins	$12
Violas	$12
Cellos	$20
Basses	$30

Attendance
All parents and guardians will receive a calendar of lesson days and holiday breaks at the beginning of the year. If school in ISD 318 is cancelled then lessons and student orchestra practices are cancelled.

Parents must notify IOSP by calling or emailing the office if a lesson will be missed for any reason. Added lessons are built into the calendar to allow for school holidays.  Make-up lessons will only be given for student illnesses with a parent phone call to the IOS office in advance of the lesson. Most make-up lessons are scheduled at the end of the school year.

Regular attendance at student orchestra rehearsals is a requirement. The director may determine when a student has missed too many rehearsals and not be allowed to perform with the orchestra in concert.

Practice
Regular practice is most important. Generally, 20-30 minutes most days is a good basis, with shorter time for beginning students.

Concert Dress
There are three student concerts at the Reif Center. Dress for girls and boys is all black including shoes and socks.