Good vs. bad student

[chopinlover]

Hi everyone.  I am posting this here because I want the opinions of music teachers.  What are the signs and qualities of a "good" student.  I have just started lessons with a wonderful teacher and I need to know how to be the best student.  I have been taking lessons for a long time-about 15 years so I am no beginner.  I have won city-wide competitions and came in second in a state-wide competition. I guess I would fall into the advanced catagory. My question, therefore, is: What are the qualifications for a good student and how can I do my best to be the best student?  (I've only had two lessons with this taedcher.  He is a professor at the college and teaches too.)  Any help on this?

[monk]

Jazz bassist Todd Coolman has written a very good characterization of "good/bad/ugly" students. Although he is speaking of "jazz" students on college level, most applies to music students in general:

I generally voice optimism when it comes to trends in jazz education. Unfortunately, I sometimes forget to mention one crucial variable: today's jazz student. Obviously the success of any educational system depends, at least in part, on the quality of students involved.

I have observed distinct strata among the wide variety of jazz students I encounter these days. I have grouped them as either "good," "bad," or "ugly." What follows are my observations on these various groups.

The "good" jazz student is one who exhibits the following qualities: 1) initiative. 2) drive and desire. 3) self-motivation. 4) listens to tons of recorded jazz music from all eras. 5) looks to the teacher for assistance and guidance rather than a "magic wand." 6) respects the history and tradition of the music.

The "bad" jazz student is one who: 1) suffers from "drive up window syndrome (wants everything right now). 2) is drawn to the performing arts professions as a means of self-validation. 3) is basically lazy and does not know the meaning of hard work or dedication. 4) looks to others to solve his problems. 5) feels that if he doesn't know or understand something, it's simply because it is not important.

The "ugly" jazz student is: 1) someone who does not belong in college in the first place. Many students should consider alternatives to college. College is not for everyone.

I realize that these "definitions" are rather simplistic, but my point is that the success of jazz education rests on the strengths of the students as well as the teachers. Teachers, therefore, should do everything possible to avoid the temptation of admitting students to jazz programs simply to satisfy enrollment quotas and should instead do a more deliberate job of recruiting the "good" students.

Best Wishes,
Monk

[Shagdac]

As far as first impression go, I think you have already displayed that you will be a good student. I say that, because you obviously CARE about being a good student, and what YOU can do to ensure your part in the learning process. The willingness on your part to desire the knowledge of what can be done to make you a better student is half the battle. I think the information Monk included holds true also. I've always had the belief that I can do more with a student who has an excellent attitude and might may not be the best technically, than some piano prodigy, with a really crappy attitude. I think there are several attributes however that do make for a better student.

1.Be on time. Don't keep your teacher waiting, her time is as important as yours.

2. Be prepared. Have all your music with you required for the lesson, and make sure you have practiced and gone over what they assigned to you. I've never had a problem with someone "not getting perfectly" whatever was assigned, but do have a problem with someone not knowing because of lack of practice.

3. Practice. Only you know how much/little/often is what you require for optimal learning results. Make sure you do what is necessary.

4. ASK questions...never think there is a "dumb" question, or that you should already no something. If you don't know...ask. Ask lots of questions, get as much information as you need to understand what it is they are asking you to do.

5. Keep communication open....by this I mean, let your teach know what you expect from their instruction as far as what you hope to gain, where you want to go with piano, what are you goals. Also, let them know of any concerns you may have, or areas of special interest.

6.  You say you have been taking 15 years...as with any teacher, their techniques may be different than a former instructor. Keep an open mind, except constructive criticism for what it is....after all, you're paying for it, and if none was needed, you wouldn't be taking lessons.

7.ASK THEM what you can do to be the best possible student. I'm sure they will be thrilled with your enthusiasm over doing a good job. I'm assuming they discussed prior to you starting, what they expected, the rules, etc....possible even had you sign an agreement. This would give you some idea of what was expected. If not ASK, just like you did here..."What can I do to be the best possible student, and gain the most out of my learning experience with you?". I'm sure they would be delighted to tell you!

Again, just from you question I'm sure you'll do great. Good luck, keep us posted and I wish you the best!

S