I want you to be good , but I don't want you to be *too good* ;)

[jinfiesto]

Well. A deserving student. I mean the best of the best. And a student who actually needs the information. If they're currently working on something and they've proven themselves to be good, I don't see a problem. And it's not a question of knowledge being shared, I don't have a problem sharing my own innovations, It's just other peoples innovations that I'm not so open to sharing is all. I'll share them if they say it's ok with them, otherwise I'd rather just keep quiet and not stir up trouble.

[horizontal]

In giving advice, teaching, or discussing anything of a nature that would help others, do you ever withhold ideas that have given you an edge, practice tips that would perhaps save others time, in a selfish way
If a teacher comes across a method, of his own creation, is it obligatory to teach it, or is it perfectly OK for him to keep it to himself, knowing he will have that edge.

An interesting topic methinks. And I hope it doesn't make me seem evil 

I'm not an expert on morality, so I can't say whether that would be right or wrong, but regardless I don't really understand or relate to your line of reasoning.  The most joyous thing imaginable for me would be to see one of my students surpass me.

[musicrebel4u]

To make a rather free paraphrase of one of my musical heroes, secrets are for little boys, I'm grown-up. I am appalled that so many accomplished musicians and pianists feel a need to keep good ideas to themselves. Good ideas are meant to be shared, and the sooner and the more widely the better. For me that is a moral principle which I shall continue to act upon regardless of reward.

Agree!

Also have to add something:
Currently, when we have to live in musically illiterate society to 'keep great ideas secret is the same as for old lady to be afraid to lose her virginity in front of Emergency nurse.