How to gracefully leave a teacher

[bernadette60614]

My teacher has been really terrific in pushing me way beyond what I thought I could ever achieve.  She teaches at the community music program of a local university just a few blocks from us, so the logistics are also ideal (not a small consideration when you work full-time and have a family.)

However, the community music program is a limited one.  It really is just instrument lessons and a performathon once a year.  My city also has a music school devoted to kids who are pre-college and aspiring to a musical career and a community music section which includes lesson, free theory classes, free opportunities to play in a chamber music setting and social events for adult students.  The teachers are well credentialed.

As I become more immersed in my studies, I've thought I would benefit from theory instruction. I've also thought how wonderful it would be to have a "musical life" ..making music with others, talking about music and performing with others. I think that I would like to switch to this school.

I certainly don't want to offend my teacher but how do I make a graceful exit?

[theholygideons]

you're fired!!

no honestly, just tell her your true objectives, and leave with the note that you'd definitely refer any amateur piano students you meet in the future to her. That way you're telling her that she did a great job, and plus she'll be grateful for your word of mouth.

[m1469]

With a certain two ...

























I shall never speak of such a thing.

[pianoman53]

Ask her about it.
Tell her that you want a bit more than just one performance a year, and that you're interested in theory.
Maybe she can help you with both, and then you don't have to change anything. Or, maybe she says that it's a great idea, and will help you get into that other school.

Most teachers are nice persons, and will do what they can to help you.

[themusicworkshop]

I think everyone has the right idea here. If your teacher is truly interested in helping you become the best musician possible, then talking to her about your goals and desire for more should prove to be a great conversation that may actually surprise you.
It is our job as teachers to always put our students best interest first, even if that means moving on.
Good luck!

[quantum]

Moving on should not be something you are ashamed of, it is a natural part of the learning processes.  Many good teachers recognize the importance of studying with other teachers.  Talk to your teacher about it.

[barbara22]

If you are an adult seriously interested in furthering your music education, then start taking inexpensive college courses at a community college in theory and music history.  If you decide later to pursue a four-year degree, the courses are transferable. 

Continue taking piano lessons from your current teacher.  Any student taking theory should be studying piano concurrently.  She sounds like a good instructor, so there is no need to change.

In other words, the two venues are not mutually exclusive.

[timothy42b]

If your teacher is providing you with the technique needed to advance further, and you have a good relationship, I'd be reluctant to drop her.

Instead I'd add what I was missing, from other sources.

[cabbynum]

When I left my first teacher he was extremely excited for me. Because I was his first student and, well not to be cocky, I moved extremely fast and he was proud of me and knew I needed a new teacher. He was actually looking into that without my knowing! We have stayed good friends and play occasionally.

I almost left my current teacher but I talked with her and made my goals very clear to her and I talked with my boss, who is good friends with her, about it and he talked with her too. Now it's awesome. She's pushing me a lot more and we are on the right track. Communication is key