Finding the right music teacher for your child is one of the most important choices you make. It sets the stage for whether or not your child will enjoy their music lessons, and that is key to helping them continue with their music lessons over the long haul.
Ensure the Music School’s Teaching Philosophy is in Line With Your Goals
Nowadays, many people are moving away from the old-style of testing and classical exams. This is because many children find that style of lessons to be stifling, stressful, and not enjoyable. Which is the exact opposite of what you hope to accomplish with lessons, right?
So if you want to move away from that, make sure you choose a music school with teachers that shares your views.
Find out how the teacher will evaluate your child’s progress, and what kinds of instructional material he or she uses. It’s also a good idea to find out what the teacher expects from your child in terms of practice time between lessons.
Group lessons can be fun for some children – if you think your child would enjoy that, be sure to ask if this is an option.
It’s also a good idea to find out ahead of time if your child will be expected to perform in a recital each year. While some children relish the opportunity to show off what they’ve learned, others become nervous and may experience stage fright.
Ensure the Music Teacher is Qualified
Ask any prospective music teacher how much teaching experience they have, what ages they teach, and if they participate in ongoing professional development. Importantly, do they just “teach” or do they play. How cool is it when your teacher is an actual performer! Find out more about the teacher’s background – where and how did they receive their training?
If your child wants to learn to be a rock guitarist, a teacher who specializes in classical music will not be the best choice, right?
Ensure the Music School Adapts to Your Child’s Needs
The last thing you need is a music school with a rigid, inflexible curriculum that won’t adapt to the needs and learning style of your child. Better, is the kind of school that bases the lessons on your individual child’s wants, needs, interests, and skill level.
Before you commit, sit in on a lesson and check if the environment is encouraging and pleasant. A music centre should make you feel very comfortable if you request a visit.
Music School Location, Facility and Value
Ensure the music lessons will be held in a location that is convenient for you and your child to attend (easy, free parking is a must – right?). Find out if you are able to stay there for the duration of the lessons, if you prefer to do so. Generally speaking, it’s good if you can have a brief word with the teacher after each lesson. You might pick up on some tips that your child forgets, and will be able to share those with your child at home during practice time.
Check into the cost – make sure the pricing for the lessons fits into your long-term budget and provides value for what you get (quality of teachers, instruction and facility).
Once You Know What to Look for in a Music Teacher/School, Choosing is Easy
As long as you know ahead of time exactly what kind of school and music teacher you’re looking for, choosing one will be easy. Between word of mouth, and your own research, you’ll have it figured out in no time! Once you’ve chosen one, you’ll have to decide how long you want to commit to lessons. After that, it’s time to sit back and enjoy the start of your child’s musical journey!
Is it time to get a tour of Capstone Music and register for music lessons? If so, contact us today and visit Burlington’s best music school!
