Change is inevitable.
Seasons change, needs change, locations change. It stands to reason that, at some point, you will need to change piano teachers. When that time comes, you need to ensure the easiest change possible for your child and your piano teacher.
Why Leave Your Piano Teacher
If you are moving to a new city, you will most likely need to switch to a different piano teacher. Melissa Cornelison (Episode 025) gave us a great example to follow when moving to a new location.
You may need to go to a different teacher as a matter of convenience. Location does matter. An elementary student has more flexibility to travel a further distance for piano lessons than an older student who is also involved in extra-curricular activities.
I am so grateful for the respect the teachers have for each other in my local music teachers association – ETMTA.
Your piano kid and their teacher may have a personality conflict. As I mentioned in Episode 002, your piano teacher has weekly, uninterrupted time with your child. If that time is not positive and productive for your piano kid, then a change must be made.
When to Leave Your Piano Teacher
If there is any physical or psychological danger to your child, remove them from lessons immediately.
In most cases, try to avoid quitting lessons in the middle of the school year or semester. This will help your child learn to honor their commitments and to persevere when facing challenges and difficult situations.
It is far better to finish the season. This gives your child and their teacher an opportunity for closure and to finish lessons on good terms. Be sure to observe your teacher’s studio policy. Some teachers require 30 days notice before quitting lessons. Aim to respect their policy. Recognize that they depend on tuition for their livelihood.
How to Transition to a New Studio
Be upfront with your teacher – Chances are they will not be surprised that you and your piano kid are wanting to make a change. This idea of switching teachers may be new to you but it’s probably not a new concept for your teacher. Having students leave their studio is part of the business. Though some teachers may take this news personally, it should not affect your decision. You must act in the best interests of your child.
Ask for recommendations – Many teachers belong to local, state, and national music teachers associations. I belong to Texas Music Teachers Association, which is also an affiliate of the Music Teachers National Association. This provides a network of teachers that can make recommendations for families needing to relocate.
Make the transition as smooth as possible – Switching teachers doesn’t have to be awkward. In my small town, I am sure to see former students at the grocery store or school functions. I don’t ever want a student to think I am not grateful to see them. I am proud of their musical accomplishments, even with other teachers.
In conclusion, we learn from every experience
I learned valuable lessons from each of my piano teachers. For that reason, I am proud to dedicate this episode to all of my former teachers:
Rose Blackwell – who taught me to have compassion for my students
Kathleen Yancey – who taught me to celebrate the achievements of my students and to know when I should help them find a more advanced teacher
MaryAnne Dean – who taught me to seek out the learning style of my students to make a positive connection with them
Karen Heath – who taught me that a young mom can teach and include her small children in the education of her piano students
For your nostalgic listening pleasure… 🙂
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