Helping teachers and students find each other

[torchygirl]

Hi all,

As I am reading and trying to figure out all of these wonderful posts, I am wondering how I will ever find such amazing and deep-thinking teachers.  

I notice that some people are posting that they are looking for a teacher...I am wondering if it wouldn't be nice to have a "dating service" for teachers and students as one of the bulletin boards.  I'm sure it would be lovely for teachers as well - helping find students who are willing to look a bit deeper into the process.

Karen
(ahem, Barring that (blush), I am in a southwest suburb of Minneapolis, MN and would love to find an insightful and deep-thinking teacher for myself - an adult with a bit of experience as a youngster who would love to learn to play really well.)

[ChristmasCarol]

I think it would be difficult to have such a listing because there would have to be someone qualifying the teachers.  That said, here's my advice on how to find a teacher.  Go to nearby music stores and piano stores.  Ask for a reference or read their bulletin boards.  Post an ad in a local small newspaper that you are looking for a teacher.  I'm not sure how old you are, but going to area concerts and clubs and asking someone whose playing you like, if they teach, is another option.  Surely there are music schools/colleges in your city.  A college student might be a great teacher.  You know the old adage, when the student is ready the teacher comes.  Once you find someone, let the first lesson be a "demonstration lesson" to see if you and the teacher are simpatico.  Have no qualms if you do not click with a couple of teachers.  Just tell them you would love to meet with them and pay for one lesson, if that's okay, etc.  It is my policy to begin every new student this way.  Exlore, go for it!

[torchygirl]

Christmas Carol,

Thank you so much for your reply and insights.  I am just so taken with some of the methods discussed here, I would like to find someone to help me work them out.   

I sorta know what's out there because my son is taking lessons, and I looked long and hard for a teacher for him.  Also, I tried taking piano about 10 years ago, and went to a very well-recommended teacher that many professionals go to, but I practised very ineffectively and it zapped my enthusiasm to try to play these quite hard pieces (Debussey's Arabesque - at least hard for me) and make so little progress.  We never discussed practising effectively - I think it would have made such a difference.

Karen