How important is theory when teaching a beginner?

[droprenstein]

I'm tutoring someone with a some very basic knowledge. She can read music to an extent, has not-horrible posture, functioning technique, all that you can expect from a beginner. I was wondering if I should teach theory as well. I primarily taught myself music theory, as my first teacher focused a lot on technique. I was giving it some thought, and it seems double-edged. On one hand, it can greatly increase harmonic understanding and expressive potential. On the other, it seems to be secondary to technique and ergonomics, and the student(tutee) will often hate learning theory with a passion, even if they enjoy the piano. Would any teachers pitch in, on how much theory should be taught at the beginner level?

[ranjit]

I wonder, does the actual student like or dislike theory?

I would explain tension and resolution, and then show how the V goes to the I. I explain this to a bunch of people and I think many get it immediately. Then, I improvise and harmonize some simple tunes with basic chord progressions.