Want to learn how to play the piano? Not all piano teachers are equal — and different students need different things when it comes to guidance. So how do you know if you’ve found the right teacher? Find out in this guest post by San Antonio, TX teacher Andrew F…
When you go about your search for a piano teacher, what things do you consider? A few important things to consider could be location, experience, and affordability. I could not and would not argue against their certainties, but I think you should also consider something else, if you are not already doing so: connection!
Success at learning to play the piano is not entirely reliant on how good a piano teacher you have. Aside from providing guidance for you while you learn to play the piano, your teacher is also there to help you maintain a desire to keep on practicing.
Knowing whether you have a good connection with your piano teacher only requires self-awareness. The following are some questions I suggest you ask yourself when searching for a piano teacher:
- Do you look forward to each meeting? Unless it is your chosen reason (for whatever… reason) to receive piano lessons, you should not be feeling reluctance about your next meeting with the teacher. The experience should be inspiring and worthwhile. If you are not looking forward to your meetings you will likely not keep up with assignments given to you, jeopardizing the whole experience! Not looking forward to your meetings with your piano teacher could affect the next important concern I will mention.
- How has your desire to play piano changed since prior to your first meeting with your piano teacher? As I have mentioned, your piano teacher should help you maintain a desire to play the piano. I believe we piano teachers play various roles, including motivator, coach, inspirer, etc. Playing these roles, we help provide nourishment toward completing your goals as a piano player. It is likely that if you are seeing a negative shift in your desire to play, it is (likely) at least partly due to a lack of a good connection with your piano teacher.
You want to get the most out of each meeting with your teacher. You will know if you have a connection with your piano teacher if the above concerns are really not concerns at all for you. Just remember to be invariably mindful of your experience, because it will benefit both you and your piano teacher. As with every situation in which two-plus entities are working together, communication is important. Ask yourself questions such as the ones mentioned above and get connected!
Andrew F. teaches piano, guitar, singing, songwriting, and more in San Antonio, TX. He also tutors in a variety of subjects, with experience working with individuals individually and in groups. Learn more about Andrew here!
Photo by woodleywonderworks
Suzy S.