What can I expect from the life of a piano teacher? (from a new teacher)

[koolkid17]

Hey everyone, I'm a new teacher and am trying to learn what life is like for veteran piano teachers.  Please help me by answering the quick survey below (only 2-3 minutes).  I'd really appreciate that!  Or other feedback/ideas you can post directly to this post.  Thank you!!! https://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/2442729/Music-Teacher-Survey-SMG4

[koolkid17]

Thanks for the feedback so far!  And by the way, if anyone wants access to the results of the survey feel free to mention here or message me!

[keypeg]

I've seen this survey previously. Unfortunately it is focused only on the monetary side of it.

[chopinlover01]

I'll summarize it.
Hell and Bliss simultaneously.



That said, I've only taught a few people so DCstudio or someone else could probably explain better than I.

[koolkid17]

I've seen this survey previously. Unfortunately it is focused only on the monetary side of it.

Keypeg, I agree that there is so much to explore in the realm of teaching piano- in fact we have a whole forum based on it and we should never focus more on money than teaching.  That being said, I do think it's important for teachers to get the best approach possible (as quickly as possible) so they can spend less time/energy worrying about money, policies, etc. and more time/energy on helping their students to grow.

But since there is so much to learn, I'd love to hear your thoughts... If you wrote could survey a large amount of piano teachers about an important aspect of piano teaching, what would you ask about?

I'll summarize it.
Hell and Bliss simultaneously.

Chopinlover... Too Funny!  You made my day

[vaniii]

As a teacher and musician for a number of years who has established a very-successful teaching practice, I continue to be amazed by how different people respond to music; especially the little-ones.

I often have sleepless nights fretting over students who just won't do that one thing that would make them reach their potential; however, it is made all the more rewarding when they eventually get there and understand why you stuck with them.

Teaching full-time gives me time to work on my craft; practise and performing.  I believe this to be one of the most important aspects; how can one teach effectivly if we allow our own ability to atrophy?  The life of a musician is life long learning.

Honestly, despite the stress, I would never change my job and hope to continue until my last days.  I often joke with colleagues that I would keep teaching even if I won the lottery or came into a win-fall; the only difference is I would immediately sack the time-wasters.

My only advice is: do not give into megalomania, people come to you for the music and your ability to teach it, not you as a human being.  Treat all of your students with respect, and don't forget we were all inexperienced and 'green' at some point.

(PS: I am new to this forum, is it possible to delete a post?)

[koolkid17]

Teaching full-time gives me time to work on my craft; practise and performing.  I believe this to be one of the most important aspects; how can one teach effectivly if we allow our own ability to atrophy?  The life of a musician is life long learning.

Honestly, despite the stress, I would never change my job and hope to continue until my last days.  I often joke with colleagues that I would keep teaching even if I won the lottery or came into a win-fall; the only difference is I would immediately sack the time-wasters.

Wise words, vaniii.  It does seem that if one loses touch with the art of performing it is harder to teach others to do the same.  And thanks for teaching me a new word: megalomania

[briansaddleback]

Yes those are wise words by vanii.


But I first had to look up 'megalomania'  as well..  lol