Difference between Training and Teaching

[pianowelsh]

Hi Again! I would like to know peoples thoughts on the subtlties of these two closely assimilated words and where you think the line should and could be drawn between the two. As teachers i believe we should do both but in which ratios?

[pianonut]

i always think of the word training in terms of 'training the next generation of teachers.'  when you encounter certain students, you get the feeling that they are good enough and precise enough and have the vocabulary and command of the english language (or their native language) to be great teachers themselves someday.  so, then, you set about not only to teach them piano - but to give them pointers along the way for being a teacher themselves.  in fact, with a couple of students, i told them 'i think you'd be a good piano teacher.  here's some ideas on knowing what level a student is at' and starting with the first level i showed them how i approached lessons for younger students.  i told him i thought teaching piano was a great job and that they could do it after school and be self-employed at a better wage than working for someone else.

teaching - that's to me - the ability to get a point across in creative ways.  you can't use the same approach for everyone.  some people don't like so much humor, other's rely on it.  you get a feel for your students when they respond well to some things and don't like others.  out of respect for my students, i try to make them feel as comfortable as possible and usually ask (before the first lesson) on a questionnaire basic questions about them so that i have a better understanding of their background.

1. have you played piano in the past.  if so, did you take lessons?  how many years?

2. if you answered yes to #1 - what did you like/dislike about your teacher.  if you quit, why did you quit?

3. what do you hope to learn about music? (strictly piano, piano/theory, piano/theory/composition)

4. list your musical repertoire

5. how much time do you have to practice on a daily basis?  (required amount same as lesson amount 1/2 hr = 1/2 hr practice at least).

6. when is your birthday?  (helps you keep track of their actual age, instead of guessing, and also celebrate the day when it comes along).

7. nowdays (even though i haven't gone back to teaching) i would ask if they have any sight problems (or ask when the last time parents had their sight checked.

8.  what kind of lighting do you have over the piano?

9.  disabilities/allergies (since we have a cat - i usually put her outside).

questions like this ( personal info -correct spelling of name, address, phone number and birthday is at the top).  also, i ask about family members and if anyone plays a musical instrument and/or if the student plays another instrument.  band/chorus

maybe another question would be  10. how much homework do you usually have on a daily basis?  can you bring some to lessons while if you have to wait for lessons? (used to have several sibilings that would bring homework and do it at the kitchen table while bro/sis was taking piano).

[jeremyjchilds]

I would like to add the word mentoring here somewhere.

[pianowelsh]

Cool! go for it jeremy any suggestions welcomed!