What to Look For in a
Music Teacher

We get many calls for music lessons, and I'm astonished that, often, the only question I'm asked is "How much do you charge?" While this is may be a factor in choosing a teacher, there are other more important issues. If cost is the only criterion, and you choose a poorly trained or inexperienced teacher, you may waste your money and many years of your time developing bad habits and serious gaps in your training. Be sure to inquire about:
1. Musical background and training
2. How much teaching experience the teacher has had
3. What style(s) of music she teaches
4. What is his/her method or approach in teaching?
5. Is he an experienced performer, himself?
6. Does he work well with children and/or adults?
7. Does she offer student recitals, and how often?
8. Does he train students in sight-reading, ear training, and especially, theory?
9. Can she prepare students for competition, college, and careers in music?

One good way to evaluate a teacher's abilities is by seeing and hearing the results. Ask if you may attend one of his student recitals or workshops, or if he is a performer, go and hear him play. Then determine if this is where you (or your child) would like to be.

One last word of advice: if you want to learn to play the violin, don't go to a piano teacher, and vice versa. Although some teachers offer lessons on many different instruments, to get the best results, go to a teacher who specializes in the instrument you want to learn, and can really play it. Only they will know the specific techniques that will make your progress faster and easier.

And remember, as with any other commodity, you get what you pay for. Never skimp on the quality of your child's or your own education.

THE TINTURIN MUSIC STUDIO
(909) 337-3811