Students
Short Term, Struggling and Wishy-Washy Students
I have a student that I am not sure how to proceed with. Petey is 9yrs and was a good student and eager learner, always did his practice and had his playlist in great condition. His mom is very supportive at home and communicative with me. Petey…
One Student Demoralizing Another
I’m hoping someone has come up with a solution to this problem. I recently had a student leave because there was a student in her group who was able to pick up the songs right away due to her 2-years prior piano experience. The group…
Misbehavior in Class
I have an 8 year old boy who does things like sit in a chair that is not where all the other kids are sitting or he’ll get up when I turn my head and go down the hall way or he won’t watch as…
Managing Students Who Say, “I Can’t”
In managing the interpersonal dynamics of others, you need to take control – in a kind, polite and firm manner – but nonetheless, control. For example, I don’t let my students say ‘I can’t’. I don’t mind if they say ‘I find it difficult –…
Judgmental Student
I need some strength… I just came out of a very intense FIS with 3 traditionally trained adults, a couple and another lady not related. They were focused on my “credentials” etc. and quite combative within explaining about the method. With some rudeness and defensiveness,…
How Much Time before Refusing to Teach
I have a new sibling group of two consisting of 6 & 7 year old boys. They have had 2 lessons and they are Russian. The 6 year old has been totally uncooperative both lessons to the point of my wanting to refuse to teach…
Difficult Student
I have a question for you. I am teaching my brother, and he loves to play the songs he has learned, but he is very difficult to teach because does not believe he needs all the steps that the teacher (me) says must be done…
Comparing Students
I need your opinions/input as to how to intelligently respond to a parent who, after the recital sent an email asking me to share my thoughts: 1. I think my child is moving too slow, isn’t being challenged enough, child is very bright (agreed) WHY?…
Child Resisting Coaching
I have two parents reporting that their children do not like to have parents around or parents correcting them at home during practice. One of the kids is 8. I am inheriting her from another Simply Music teacher who has stopped teaching to further his…
Capable Student Processes Slowly
I have a student whose ability is pretty equal with his class, but he processes things much more slowly at first. It’s noticeable enough to be considered a learning disability–he’s plenty bright and capable of mastering the material, but it takes him much longer than…