How can you be sure your investment in your child’s drum lessons is worth it? Even if you don’t know specific drumming techniques, there are certain things you can do to check in. Read on as Santa Cruz, CA teacher Joe M. shares his pointers…
So, your child finally has his drum set! He’s practicing all the time and both of you are eager to start his lessons. Or perhaps he’s been taking lessons but you’re just not sure if they are paying off? If you’re familiar with these scenarios then you may be asking “How do I measure the success of my child’s drum lessons?” Below are three things to consider.
Learning
This seems pretty obvious, but how do you know your student is learning? It is the teacher’s responsibility to have a rock-solid approach for your child’s musical development. To make sure there is structure, you might consider asking your child’s teacher to supply an outline of current progress or accomplishments, such as learning specific drumming techniques, learning how to read drum music, or mastering a particular song.
The transparency of a progress report provides accountability for both the student and the teacher. Your child’s teacher should be held accountable to create and execute a well-thought-out lesson plan, ideally one that will motivate your child to learn and practice; it is the child’s job to learn and practice the plan.
Fun
Is your child walking away from the lesson energized and feeling good? Is he or she looking forward to learning more? Is it a fun experience?
Any studious undertaking requires attentiveness and discipline, but a good teacher will balance those efforts with lightheartedness. After all, this is music — it should be fun! Being a star student can be a bit much when trying to coordinate four limbs after a long day at school. A good drum teacher will balance that line of ensuring progress and growth, while staying light and positive.
Big Picture
Are lessons providing a positive influence for your child’s well-being? What are the intangibles in your child’s life when it comes to drum lessons? Are your child’s lessons worth it to you?
Fun and learning aside, these are the important question to ask. Any number of things could determine what makes it worth it for you and your child. Playing an instrument provides a litany of personal and developmental benefits, but any lesson won’t be as successful if the student is actually interested in another instrument, or not interested at all.
Undertaking a discipline or hobby is beneficial, especially if it’s done out of love. Use the above three pointers to check in on your child’s progress, and ultimately, make sure everyone (the student, the teacher, and you as a parent) has the same intent.
Joe M. teaches percussion and drums in Santa Cruz, CA. He received his Bachelor of Music from Humboldt State University, as well as his Master of Music from California State University of Long Beach. Learn more about Joe M. here!
Photo by horngyih
Suzy S.