Piano teachers have the rare opportunity to make money doing something they love, while also making a difference in the lives of others. There are not many people who can experience the joy that comes from sharing their passion with others.
So how do you be a piano teacher and make a difference in someone else’s life at the same time? There are five primary concepts that you need to understand before you can be a piano teacher your students will remember for a lifetime.
1. Understand that you will be training your students not only about the piano, but about life. There are so many life lessons to be learned while taking piano lessons: time management, determination, starting slowly, patience with oneself, trust in the teacher, repetition for improvement, performing in front of others … and the list goes on! The most effective piano teachers instruct their students in a way that will help them become successful at piano, and in life.
2. Understand that the student’s one-on-one time with you may be the only time they get the undivided attention of another human being for an extended period of time. It’s not a pleasant thought, but for the majority of students, it’s a sad fact of life. Most families have two working parents and the limited amount of time kids have in the evenings is spent at extra curricular activities. Take this time to show the student that they are so important to you that you are willing to give them 30-60 minutes of your time uninterrupted!
3. Communicate with the parent after each lesson. The most effective teachers take a couple of minutes at the end of each lesson to talk with the parent about what was accomplished during the lesson, what the child could improve upon and what the child excelled in. You will be amazed at what that two minutes will do to build a positive and lasting relationship with your student and his/her parents.
4. Understand that you will not only have to teach the student, but the parents as well. Most families who are just starting out in piano lessons are unaware of the expectations on them. Some parents do not even know that their child is supposed to practice during the week! Teaching a child to practice is not enough. You have to teach the parent about practicing.
5. Give each lesson your own personal touch. There are many ways you can show your students that you care about them, from birthday cards, to simply asking how their day at school was. Getting to know the student on a personal level will ingratiate you into their lives. This will increase their desire to please you and do what you ask of them. It’s simple to do, and has long-lasting positive effects.
If you want to be a piano teacher and make a difference in the lives of your students, it will require a little bit of extra consideration on your end. Keep the above five concepts in mind and use them every day with every student. You will see the results and reap the benefits.
Tags: Be A Piano Teacher
