teacher qualification

[nadia goh]

hi. i have a question to ask.. currently, i am learning pathetique mov 3 on my own and i think i can play quite ok. i just need to work on the rhythm i suppose. i have stopped my piano lesson since last april and i wish to continue my piano lessons but the dilemma is that the piano teacher that the center is going to assign me has grade 8 abrsm qualification. will i be learning a lot from this teacher or should i go search for a teacher with higher qualification?

i'm open to suggestions/opinions. tq.

[keyboardclass]

You want the best you can afford.  Look for a diploma and maybe a degree as well - music's not just about playing the piano.

[asiantraveller101]

Grade 8 teaching Pathetique? I would be extremely skeptical! You deserve a much more qualified and experienced teacher.

[nadia goh]

thanks keyboardclass and asiantraveller. i've been thinking about this issue for quite some time but i ignored it because i thought i might seem too judgmental over the selection of teacher.

and of course i want the best that i can afford so, i'll keep on looking for a qualified teacher.

thanks again

[keyboardclass]

Don't be afraid to try loads out - tell them you want to see if you'll both be happy.  I'd go with the one who emphasizes posture the most.

[braintist]

I am not sure how experienced you grade 8 teacher is. Grades are not the only measure of musical proficiency. IMO, Beethoven sonatas are seriously challenging musically and for a large majority challenging technically. Movt 3 of pathetique requires very clean articulation of the notes and clear musical phrasing with proper direction. Also in this case you also have to bring out the character of the rondo out. In addition, there are many subtle nuances in the entire piece that requires proper understanding and execution to bring out the rondo's character.

Your teacher is not qualified if he just go through the techniques solely (though the 3rd movt is not really that technically difficult). He should also be guiding you on how to express the musical line and to help you gain authority over the direction of the musical phrasing. He should also be aware of the execution of the various phrases and their styles so as to bring out the best effect. Finally, he should also give you the feeling of mastery and freedom of expression over the entire piece.

If you don't really feel satisfied with your musical progress I strongly suggest you to get a better teacher preferably with at least a music degree in performance majoring in piano.