The expressive arts of music and language are rooted in auditory learning, based on a consistent flow of accurate models coupled with thoughtful, intentional imitation. Listening is key in both experiences. For music, it is highly recommended that sessions be recorded (any sort of appropriate device is acceptable), and review of the recording affords the student and home coach the opportunity to “take the lesson” home in its entirety. Shinichi Suzuki’s pioneering work is the basis, augmented by strong pedagogy and technical competence through the Russian skill regimen.
Private music lessons (piano, music theory, ear training, related studies) and intensive academic instruction are available as are targeted, small group sessions. An interview with prospective students and parent(s) [as applicable] is required in order to determine the specialized needs and placement of a studio candidate. For academic experiences, pre-admission testing may also be required. A curriculum is designed for every student, musical or academic, and individualized lesson planning for every student and every lesson (musical or academic) is studio policy. For music students, as appropriate, periodic external reviews and adjudications are available as inspirational progress assessments.
The instructional year is divided into four terms with additional summer coaching as available. Tuition is payable annually, or if more convenient, prior to the start of each term (Note: There is discount given for tuition paid annually). Enrollment is for the entire academic year, and withdrawals doing the year are assessed a fee. Recitals and group activities such as videography are included in tuition. Individual additional coaching experiences may be scheduled as instructor time is available. Materials and periodic special activities such as field trips are billed separately.
The successful student is one who has organizational skills; high levels of critical reading and thinking; study skills; and a clear understanding of academic "protocols" - what is it that matters in education. But students sometimes get side-tracked. LHMI and ACE (Academic Consulting Enterprises, a part of LHMI) first meets with students and parents in order to discuss long-term goals which may be either enrichment, remediation, or a combination. Basic, in-house testing helps to identify strengths and weaknesses after which a student-centered, fully customized curriculum is developed. Depending upon the student's age and goals, sessions may be one and a half to three hours a week over a period of eight to ten weeks. Parents are both welcomed and encouraged to attend and participate in sessions as appropriate. Again, the climate is one of continuing assessment and re-assessment. If instructor time is available, individual coaching sessions may be scheduled.
In addition to her extensive music and general academic credentials, Hale (Robinson) is a published author and editor. During her time on the English faculty of East Carolina University (Greenville, NC), she served as senior associate editor of the award-winning journal, the North Carolina Literary Review , and produced publications as varied as Cornerstone (the magazine for ECU’s Harriot College of Arts and Sciences) and the annual reports (documents of record) for the entire college. She has served as English language consultant for German language speakers who wished to publish in English language scholarly journals and has been writing advisor for a veterinary medicine doctoral dissertation at Ohio State University. She is available as a writing consultant/technical writer for companies, for individuals engaged in producing a wide variety professional documents, and for younger writers (of any age) who wish to raise their language skills to a greater level.
