Practicing
I provide each student with a Practice Assignment sheet at each lesson. I recommend a minimum of 15
- 30 minutes each day practicing (depending on the level). I also tell my students that practicing is much more than
just trying to get through a song a few times. I highly recommend the "breaking down" of the music; i.e. practicing
the first 3 measures of a piece until the student is comfortable with the technique and fingering, then moving on. Students
progress nicely when concentrating on the areas they have trouble with.
Supervision/Sit-Ins During
Lessons
Unlike a lot of private music instructors, I actually prefer a parent staying for the lesson. This gives the
parent the opportunity to clearly see where their child is progressing and where they need improvement. I do ask that
if a parent stays, however, that they respect the time we have for a lesson. I'm more than happy to talk and answer
any questions or concerns after the lesson is over.
Termination
Teaching is such a rewarding career and something I truly have passion for. Unfortunately (and rarely) I will
have to dismiss a student if any of the following occurs on a regular basis:
- Uncooperative attitude
- Disrespect to myself
- Lack of progress due to insufficient practice and/or failure to complete theory assignments
I do my best to work with the parent and student to fix the situation before dismissal. I just believe
that lessons are not beneficial if any of the above occurs regularly.
