Keys To Successful Lessons!

Your teacher brings preparation, experience, and a love for playing to your lessons. That's a part of your success - excellent instruction.  But your teacher only sees you for a small amount of time each week. The rest of the time, and success, lies in your hands!
 
Here’s how to experience true success with Music Lessons!​

1.  Set Goals! 
Weekly Goals 
One of the first keys to successful lessons is to appreciate the small victories. Every week! Every time you put your hands on your instrument you make progress, whether you can see it or not.
Your weekly assignments are actually weekly goals. Every time you play a new song, finger exercise, or just a couple of measures - you've succeeded!
Long Term 
News flash! You're not going to be a master in six months. I know you know that, but have you really examined your expectations? Many students begin lessons with unrealistic expectations, then feel frustrated by their "lack of progress." Even if progress has been exceptional!
Talk to your teacher about where you can expect to be in six months. In a year. When you know what to expect, you'll be proud of your progress.
Ups and Downs 
Another one of the big keys to successful lessons is to realize that there will be great days. And not-so-great days. And terrible days. And days where you play everything with ease!
Good, bad, terrific, or terrible - you will experience all of them. Remember that everything you feel is OK! It's all part of the journey of learning.
Tomorrow, you'll feel different. I promise.

2.  Have A Great Attitude!
Be Teachable 
Be willing to listen and accept instruction and correction. This tip is true for everyone, young and old.
Trust your teacher. 
You will learn more quickly and more successfully.
Enjoy Being A Beginner 
Yes, a beginner! It's another important key to successful piano lessons.
Our society puts a high value on being the best. And right now! Most people live life in a nearly constant state of comparison to those around them. There's no room for being a beginner, or for the process of discovery. It's all instant gratification, all the time.
Let it go. Take joy in the beauty of the simple melodies you play. Don't focus so hard on the destination that there's no enjoyment of the journey!

3.  Be Responsible!
Show up on time for your lesson. Actually, show up a bit early so you're ready when your teacher finishes with the previous student. Attend every lesson—even if you haven’t been able to practice much. Bring your books and materials every week.
Be Honest 
Tell your teacher when you don't understand something. Don't just sit and nod (thinking that you'll go home and figure it out on your own). It's really OK! Your teacher wants you to understand! He/she will be happy to explain differently.
Remember, you're the customer! You're paying for instruction. Don't be embarrassed if you don't immediately get a new concept. Ask for clarification! You'll leave your lesson happier, and enjoy your practice much more.
Make Time 
Priorities get done! That's all there is to it.
Give yourself the gift of time. Daily time that's your own - to play your instrument. Put it at the top of your to-do list. Make your dream of playing an instrument a priority, and you'll be getting closer to your dream every day!

4.  Have Fun!
Just Play 
Don't just do your assigned work. Sit down at your instrument, without books or music, and just noodle around. Find a musical sentence in your hands that sounds good. Just go with it. Don't censor yourself - just play! (And by the way - that's all there is to composing!)
 
I can guarantee your teacher wants you to enjoy your lessons, and enjoy learning to play. Your teacher is your coach and one of your biggest fans! They want you to succeed!
 
Keep these tips where you can see them and review them for on-going encouragement!
 
You’re on your way! Here’s to your musical success!
 
Jen and Chris Hickle
Owners
 Used by permission: www.you-can-play-piano.com/keys-to-successful-piano-lessons.html