Advice for Students Changing Music Teachers
Change can be challenging. Musicians often experience difficulties when transitioning to a new private lesson teacher. Several factors may contribute to this struggle, such as adapting to new skills introduced by the teacher or feeling an immediate disconnect with their personality. Whatever the case may be, challenges are inevitable when starting lessons with a new instructor. This article provides both perspective and practical steps to implement when you transfer to a different studio.
Benefits of Changing Teachers
There are many benefits to studying with a variety of music instructors. First, each teacher emphasizes different skills based on their strengths. For example, your new teacher may emphasize technique while your former teacher focused on musicality. Adjusting your focus will help you become a more balanced musician. Second, a new teacher offers a fresh perspective on your abilities and repertoire. They evaluate your strengths and weaknesses and offer support in these areas. Additionally, they may introduce you to new ideas or pieces that your former teacher did not cover, broadening your understanding of musical interpretation and expanding your repertoire. Finally, they often have professional connections that can assist you in networking with other musicians.
Challenges of Changing Teachers
Changing teachers can come with several challenges. You may feel as though you’ve learned something incorrectly because your new teacher has a different approach than your previous one. Many times, the old way was not necessarily wrong; there are often multiple correct methods for accomplishing the same task, and sometimes the differences come down to stylistic preferences.
Another challenge can be adjusting to the new teacher’s vocabulary. Each pedagogue has a unique way of expressing ideas, and it may take time for you to fully understand what they are communicating. Lastly, you might feel uncomfortable if you are not familiar with the teaching methods of your new teacher. For instance, your new teacher may prefer using movement, aural training, or physical expression in their lessons. This unfamiliarity can leave you feeling out of your comfort zone for a few weeks until you get accustomed to the new teaching style.
Practical Steps for Navigating Transitions
When transitioning to a new teacher, you can control three important aspects: your perspective, your attitude, and your effort. First, strive to have the right perspective. View your new teacher as your teacher. During the lesson, avoid thinking or saying “my former teacher…”. Trust that God has a purpose for placing you with this new teacher and believe that He will use the situation for your future benefit.
Second, engage in lessons and practice sessions with a positive attitude. Be open and honest with your new teacher. Communication is key to establishing a good relationship. When you do not understand what your teacher is asking you to do, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. Additionally, if you’re feeling frustrated or overwhelmed, it’s important to share those feelings with your teacher. Because your teacher cannot read your mind, expressing your thoughts with a spirit of humility and eagerness to learn is crucial.
Last, you should demonstrate enthusiastic effort during your lessons and practice sessions. Even when you do not see the value in a suggestion, attempt to implement it wholeheartedly. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and make note of any difficulties you encounter while practicing. A strong work ethic helps students progress more quickly and achieve more in a shorter period. However, patience is necessary. It takes time for the new teacher to determine realistic expectations for you and for you to clearly understand the expectations. Both sides need to exercise grace during this adjustment period.
Final Thoughts
Changing teachers can be challenging, but it also brings great benefits. You can make the transition smoother by demonstrating enthusiastic effort, a positive attitude, and a right perspective. Here are a few encouraging reminders as you transfer into a new studio:
Remember…
- Your new teacher is not in competition with your former teacher
- Your new teacher will not be exactly the same as your former teacher
- Your new teacher has reasons for doing things you might not understand
- Your new teacher wants you to feel respected and valued
- Your new teacher wants you to succeed
- Your new teacher is on your team
As you begin lessons with your new teacher, remember that you impact how the transition unfolds. Do your best to demonstrate enthusiastic effort, a positive attitude, and a right perspective, and then trust the results to God.
Written with insight from MBU private lesson instructors Allison Boorujy, June Brus, Ruth Brown, Dr. David Ledgerwood, Carol Ruffin, Melody Steinbart, and Janet Tschida