commitment

Showing 1 - 10 of 13 results in commitment

Trying Out Lessons

I have run three FIS’s over the past week, and have encountered a number of potential parents who use the phrase “we want to give it a go”. Now, I know this is a phrase we don’t like to hear necessarily – as “giving it…

Requirement Success

Sharing a requirement-based success story. I had a family recently whose two children never practiced consistently since they started. I told parents and children consistently the past week before spring break and week following that it wasn’t a problem, but that it wasn’t going to…

Student Absences

I’d love to get feedback on how you handle absences from students who are ill. I offer make-up lessons or even extended lessons to “make up” the time. Also, what about adults or youth who are so involved in other activities that they aren’t always…

Student quit after one month – parent not on board

I am disappointed to have a student stop lessons after one month. She is 9 years old and came in with several years of traditional lesson experience. My sense was that her mother was positive about SM and letting her start at Level 1, but…

Trial Lesson

I have a parent inquiring about lessons and asking to do one trial lesson. I think having her do the 4-song workshop or a 3-month trial is a better idea. What do you think? I would say “Yes” and just do a free introductory session…

Having difficult conversations

I’m having trouble with a boy aged 7 years who hasn’t been following the rules (mum isn’t helping as she always asks his permission for everything!). Today I told him I wanted to help him but I couldn’t if he wouldn’t listen to me and…

“Trying it out”

What is your take on parents who say “We’re just going to try this for a year and see if it works”? Do you take on the student and think of it as an opportunity to impact the parents’ viewpoint since this is the way…

“Trying out” Simply Music

Just curious how you handle inquiries from people who are interested in “trying it out” vs being committed to a long-term relationship with piano. I’m looking for students and families who place a high priority on music, although I’m well aware that without being exposed,…

Differences in practice habits in group

A group of three students: The first one does everything I assign beautifully. The second one (the fastest learner of the three) only practices 1/2 of the assigned items, but beautifully. The third one does 1/3 of what I assign but not so beautifully because…