Teaching another person how to play a musical instrument, or how to improve their technique can be a very rewarding experience. Sharing your enthusiasm and enjoyment for music by allowing others to feel the same feelings.
In some ways, teaching a person how to play a musical instrument is very similar to teaching any other subject. You have to plan, monitor progress, and work towards goals. But in some ways, it can different, playing an instrument is practical, and more creative.
Sometimes, simply being able to play a musical instrument does not mean you’re going to be a great tutor. Having certain things in place will set you up for success.
- Create a calm and comfortable environment. If you have control over this, hold tutoring lessons in a de-cluttered room, with no distractions, and a room with windows. If this is at a student’s home, a room should be again free from distractions, others (apart from if a parent is sitting in), and in a neutral space e.g. a dining room, not a bedroom.
- Plan lessons. Create a brief overview of what you’ll be covering in each lesson. This will then inform you of anything you need to bring e.g. instruments, extra attachments. Plus what you’ll be covering based on the student's abilities, what chords should you start with, can the student attempt these yet?
- Find out what your student wants to learn. For the most part, people want to learn what they do not know or want to know more about, and these are where people’s weaknesses lie. If you can find out what these are, and tailor lessons to work towards achieving these goals, students tend to be more engaged and involved in their learning.
- Have a positive attitude. Nothing is more disheartening than your tutor or teacher not being pleased with your progress, no matter what age the student is. Even when progress is slow, it’s important to remain positive and encouraging. As when people are in a comfortable learning environment, they are more likely to learn from mistakes, rather than dwell on them and not move forward. Even students will learn at their own pace, a tutor's role is to provide constructive feedback in a positive way that encourages and motivates.
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This post was updated on 01 Aug, 2023.
