I have just started teaching privately in my home and have 2 students who are sisters. I was wondering if other piano teachers give discounts to families with more than one student taking lessons? I am not sure how to handle this. I know that dance teachers, etc. often give discounts when there is more than one family member taking the lessons. If I would give a discount, is there an appropriate amount?

-- Barb Travalio (TravArt2@aol.com), November 06, 2002

Answers

Barb, why give a discount? Yes, we teach piano because we love it, and it brings us joy to pass the talent to others. But, we also teach for the money, otherwise we would be doing it for free. I do not offer a discount for siblings. In the end, the parent signs them both up anyway. I have a neighbor who teaches. She decided to offer a discount. Word got around, and now everyone expects it! And, she is making much less than she originally planned. The business part is the hardest part, but you've got to stick to your guns. Hope this helps.

-- trudy shiba (trushiba@hotmail.com), November 12, 2002.

Hi, Barb, did a Internet search under your name, and look where I am! I'd give them a discount, if you thought it meant the difference between having them as students or not!

-- Ann Egolf (dapetrsn@frontiernet.net), December 19, 2002.