Learning to play the piano can be very exciting to a student and yet very challenging at the same time. It is, for most students, their first exposure to reading music, playing an instrument, and learning any kind of music theory. It can pose new dilemmas such as, remembering to practice, being able to stay focused during a lesson, or getting to know a new adult.
What is wonderful about this instrument is that students can make beautiful music right from the get-go. For many, this is enough to keep them interested and practicing. Often however, children need extra encouragement, particularly from their parents. Even if you don't play the piano, or any musical instrument, you need to be involved.
You can help your student by:
- helping them practice daily
- listening to the songs they play (often you can tell when something isn't correct)
- making sure they play the songs they are assigned first, then extras later
- reminding them that learning can be challenging sometimes
- asking me questions about assignments or music
- encouraging them to find music they are interested in
One of the most important things you can do is to stay on top of daily practicing. It's amazing how much progress comes from short bursts of healthy practice each day. This can also be the hardest part of learning an instrument.
Since I am partially dependent on upon what happens at home in order to make the most of lessons, I consider parental involvement as important as a student's practice time. Even with supplemental games, ear training, and improvisational lessons, it is very challenging for a student to progress if solid practicing doesn't occur and if parents aren't aware of it.
Please feel free at any time to ask questions about your student, music assignments, or my teaching philosophy. You can attend lessons as often as you would like (and may even learn a thing or two!)
Also, if anything has changed at home that may affect your student please let me know so that I can be sensitive to their needs.
Teaching the piano to students is so satisfying to me. I love passing on an invaluable skill and love of music to others. I am excited to challenge and stimulate the minds of my students. I feel that, as a partner with parents, a student can have a very fulfilling experience when they are learning to play the piano. Yes, it is hard. But I am discovering that almost everything of worth to us most in life makes us stretch and sacrifice and grow.
