The connection between student and music teacher is important – often much more so than tutors for other subjects like math or science. Music, after all, relies on emotion and passion in addition to skill. If your teacher isn’t directing your passion in a way that you understand, it can make the learning process much more difficult. Finding the perfect music teacher – even if that means switching music teachers at some point – is incredibly important to your success.
If you’re feeling frustrated, or just plain “stuck,” we encourage you to speak with your current instructor first. Communication is key – and the more your instructor knows, the better he or she can help you progress! Sometimes, it’s as simple as adjusting what you’re working on. Good teachers are open to feedback and will work with you to make sure you’re getting what you need out of your lessons.
But other times, it’s simply not a good match.
The good news? There’s nothing wrong with that. It doesn’t make you a bad student, and it doesn’t mean you should give up your dream of playing music. As many of our students can attest, sometimes it’s just a matter of finding the teacher you click with the best. Every instructor is different in terms of teaching style, communication style and experience, and you may very well mesh with one over another.
Here are some common examples of times when you may want to consider switching music teachers:
– You or your child has special needs, and your current teacher is not comfortable adjusting to them.
– Your child is having trouble focusing, and/or your instructor isn’t used to teaching kids (it takes a lot of patience to handle an antsy child!).
– You’d like to learn a specific technique or genre that your current teacher isn’t able to teach you.
– You’ve reached a playing level that your instructor isn’t comfortable teaching.
– You’ve been working with one teacher for a very long time, and you no longer feel challenged or motivated.
– You have a very strict schedule or time frame that your teacher cannot accommodate.
With the TakeLessons program, students are free to switch teachers when the need arises – let us know your feedback, and we’ll work with you to find a new teacher who better suits your needs, goals and interests. The most important thing to remember is to be honest with the teacher you’re parting with, and also be honest with yourself and what you (or your child) needs.
When you’ve found the right teacher, you’ll notice a difference – sometimes right off the bat. And that’s what we’re here for!
- Suzy S., TakeLessons staff member and blogger
Questions or comments? Drop a line below, or stop by our Facebook page and we’ll be happy to help! Looking for a new teacher? Search for music teachers in your area.
You might also like…
- Help Your Child Choose the Right Instrument
- How to Save Money on Music Lessons
– Is Your 9-to-5 Draining Your Creativity?
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