🎵 Talent vs. Teaching
We’ve all heard it: “Those who can’t do, teach.”

Except… after 35+ years running a music school, I can say that sometimes it’s more like: 
​"Those who do too much, forget how to teach."

We’ve hired some incredibly talented performers over the years—Juilliard grads, Berklee pros, even Oberlin Conservatory alumni. But sometimes, when someone’s entire musical world is advanced performance, they genuinely forget what it’s like to be a beginner. That first-year student, full of curiosity and wiggly fingers, ends up overwhelmed and frustrated. The teacher might be dazzling—but the student stops learning (or stops showing up).
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Not every great player makes a great teacher. And not every great teacher has to play Liszt from memory with their eyes closed.

​🧑‍🏫 Education vs. Connection
Of course, musical education and credentials matter—but so does the ability to teach. Some teachers never really planned on teaching. It’s a side hustle, and gigging is their true love. And while there’s nothing wrong with balancing both, you want a teacher who’s actually present—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally.
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On the flip side, you might find a teacher with modest credentials who absolutely lights up when helping students succeed. And trust me, that spark? It matters.

​🧠 Knowledge vs. Repertoire Awareness
A teacher may play beautifully, but how wide is their knowledge of repertoire? And, if it’s not that wide, will they help your child explore beyond what they themselves know and can play—or just teach what they know by heart?
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Some teachers only accept students up to a certain level—and that’s fine, as long as you’re aware. But often, it’s because they feel they have to play every piece a student works on. That may sound great… until your child grows used to hearing every song before they try it. That might make things easier in the moment—but it’s not the path to true independence as a musician.

​💬 Relationship vs. Results
A teacher who connects with students is gold. I've even heard many a parent say they want their child to build a personal connection with their teacher so they'll enjoy the lessons more. But some take “connection” a little far—like chatting away half the lesson while your child barely touches the keyboard. 

​On the flip side, the super-structured teacher might never ask how your kid’s week went—but you’ll see progress like clockwork.

​Ideally? You want someone who finds the balance. They know when to laugh, when to listen, and when to say, “OK, let’s get back to that tricky measure.”

👵👩‍🎓 Older Teacher vs. New/Younger Teacher​
​Experience is valuable—but so is enthusiasm. While veteran teachers can bring years of wisdom and stability, don’t count out the newer faces in the studio. Everyone has to start somewhere, and many younger teachers are doing exactly what they set out to do: teach. They often bring a fresh perspective, a sense of excitement, and a deep commitment to helping students explore new and challenging music. In fact, some of the most inspirational teachers we’ve seen are the ones just getting started—because they remember what it’s like to be a beginner and genuinely want to grow alongside their students.

​And if you’re ever unsure whether your practice space is helping or hindering your child, ask your teacher. We’re happy to offer ideas, and we’ve seen it all. (Seriously. All of it.)
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By the Way...
Just a little reminder--home playing is a good thing! Not "practicing"--playing. Having fun. Being inspired and excited about new music. The more time your child spends at their instrument, the more familiar and personal it becomes. Our studio highly encourages playing at home, especially for family and friends. Whether it’s trying out a favorite tune, improvising, or showing off a new piece, these moments build confidence and make music feel like a natural part of everyday life.

That said, one of the unique features of The Music Studio’s program is that teacher-supervised practice is built right into each weekly 60-minute session. That means much of the "practice burden" is lifted from both students and parents—allowing home time to be more about playing enjoyment than practicing.

And when your home music space is inviting, comfortable, and organized, it helps reinforce that playing music isn’t just something to “get through”—it’s something to look forward to.
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Set the stage, make a little space, and let music feel at home in your home. 🎶

​Thank you for reading! We hope you'll check back in for more tips on making music lessons successful and long lasting!