Hello! Honestly completely non-judgmental post, I am just curious and would love some input from parents. Basically, I’m a music teacher and in a nutshell I want to know why parents sign their children up for music lessons?
Background: I honestly think I have the best job in the world, I absolutely love teaching piano to children and I wouldn’t change it for the world. I have a great relationship with most of the children I teach and their parents alike. However I would say that the majority of the children that I teach don’t do nearly enough practise. I’ve never had a go at any of my pupils or parent about it, because let’s face it life’s too short and I’m just not that kind of person. But I have always explained to both pupils and parents the importance of completing weekly practise. I honestly do try and make it fun and I don’t think anyone goes away from my lessons having had a negative experience. I have to admit though that underneath the smiles, the fun demeanour and jokes I do find it frustrating. Learning a musical instrument is like learning a language and acquiring physical skill all rolled into one. It’s not something that anyone can just pick up without regular effort and encouragement. Most children (my own included!) prefer to play computer games or chat to their friends, but with regular practise and encouragement most children have the skills to become fluent at reading music and playing, but many aren’t encouraged to do so, not even for 10 minutes a day.
So yes, that’s it’s really, if you’re a parent signing your child up for music lessons what do you honestly hope they’ll get from it? I’m especially interested to hear from the parents whose children barely do any practise for whatever reason, I promise I’m not hear to judge any of you ☺️