Switching teachers... again

[ce nedra]

I'm in a bit of a dilemma.

Last year, I was going to go to the best teacher in the country (he teaches at the university here)... he was willing to take me and all was going well BUT then he received his time table from the university and found that he was completely full, so I went to one of the other Uni teachers instead. The one I'm currently going to is good, but not quite the standard of the other. My current teacher is more of a performer than a teacher. My friend, studying with the better one, tells me that he is becoming very interested in me and my music and is hinting at teaching me.... He would most definitely be better for my career and playing... but my problem is that I've changed a few more times in my life than many, and I know changing teachers is not really good, and doesnt help for stable playing. But he is the best. Should I take the opportunity or stick to the steady, but lesser, route I'm busy with now?

Help!!

The Imperial Princess

[danyal]

Well I think I can understand your situation. I must ask, if you were to change now, how long would you stay with the new teacher for? And would this be the very last time you would change? What are your piano related goals? (Would it be worth it) I think you should think it through before making any life changing decisions, because it sounds like this could be one. If you want to follow a prefessional career then I think that the better one would be the best for you. If not, I think just stay put.

Another question... you said the teacher is hinting on taking you, but it is definite? You dont want to get your hopes up just to be let down again.

[leahcim]

Just a thought, but if he's become interested because of your recent playing that doesn't suggest there's much wrong with what you've been doing. [Whether that's in spite of or because of this other teacher you can decide]

It sounds like you want this teacher though.

I'd be wary a second time only because it sounds like he didn't give you the same priority as his other students. Maybe it was a one-off and a mistake, in which case, fair enough. Go for it.

But, if he [or someone else on his behalf] over commits himself again, will you be the one he is telling the bad news? If he makes that possibility clear upfront, and you're willing to accept those terms, again go for it.

But, otherwise, make it clear to him that you want him as a teacher and you'll offer your commitment, effort etc etc etc but he must in return offer his too - being ill or abducted by aliens might be a reasonable excuse why he can't teach you, teaching Fred Hoskins instead shouldn't be. Otherwise you might be better sticking with someone who is reliable and waiting until this guy can offer you those terms if his hand is forced by the Uni.

[princessdecadence]

Always been my problem too, I only stuck with one teacher when I was much younger and those are the times when I actually really learn the piano and improve.  Having one constant teacher would help you grow as a pianist since they would know you inside out (your weaknesses and strengths) I didn't improve much when I was fickle.