Welcome to LivingPianos.com, I’m Robert Estrin. Today I’m going to tell you the top 5 myths about piano teaching.
Myth 1: Great Teachers Don’t Take Beginners
It’s a common belief that top-tier piano teachers only work with advanced students. While it’s true that many high-level instructors at conservatories focus on refining the skills of already proficient players, this doesn’t mean they don’t teach beginners. In fact, teaching beginners can be immensely rewarding and crucial for a student’s development. Many skilled teachers are adept at guiding students from their first notes to advanced techniques. The foundation laid by a dedicated beginner teacher can pave the way for future mastery.
Myth 2: Every Other Week Lessons Are Ineffective
I used to think that having piano lessons every other week could hinder progress due to a lack of consistency. However, my experience teaching online has shown that bi-weekly lessons can be highly effective. Students who are committed and manage their practice well can thrive with this schedule. The key is ensuring that students are motivated and make the most of the time between lessons.
Myth 3: Great Teachers Are Strict
Many parents seek out strict teachers, believing that rigid rules and discipline will lead to better outcomes. While some students may respond well to a strict approach, effective teaching generally involves understanding and communication. It’s important to tailor your approach to each student’s needs and personality. A successful teacher builds a relationship with their student to address any obstacles and support their growth.
Myth 4: Great Teachers Have A Well-Formed Lesson Plan
Another misconception is that exceptional teachers adhere to a fixed lesson plan. While it’s essential for teachers to have a structured approach that includes progressive repertoire, technique, and theory, flexibility is crucial. Each student is unique, and teaching should be adapted to fit their individual needs and goals. A good teacher listens to their students and adjusts their methods accordingly, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all plan.
Myth 5: Students Must Always Follow a Prescribed Path
Finally, the idea that there is a single correct path for all piano students is misleading. Effective teaching involves collaboration between teacher and student. Teachers must be adaptable and responsive, creating a learning experience that aligns with each student’s personal journey. I’m Robert Estrin here at LivingPianos.com, Your Online Piano Store. Thanks for joining me!
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One thought on “Top 5 Piano Teaching Myths”
I love this lecture, and I agree with all your miths! Funny that myth 1 now makes me feel like I am a great teacher, even if I never reached the level of being a pianist (my mother was). Beginners students are my favorites because I follow the classical method mother used with me, I have lots of patience and I love to see the progress of my students. Myth 2, well, it is OK if the student is one who is committed to learning and shows that he/she has done daily practice at home, and I can tell the different if they have not! Myth 3, 4 and 5, I had been an equestrian instructor for over 30 years and dealing with 2 living beings at the same time, you have to be flexible and adapt the lessons as they progress.