Darlene Taylor, Keynote Music

Sooner or later whether parent or student, whether beginner or experienced the difficult choice of music teacher must be made. But even before that, the decision of what instrument and ultimately what style of music you are working toward. With this in mind you can then begin the task of selecting a teacher. Periodically it was my task to interview music teachers for the school as our student base expanded. We had certain basic principles that included the ability to read and teach written music, basic theory and to play at least two musical styles, many teachers could not meet these minimums. I recall a teacher of high Toronto Royal Conservatory and other training that wowed me with a classical piece performed professionally and exceptionally but when asked to sight read a simple and popular piece from a big note book all the glitz vanished. Not all virtuosos’ can play happy birthday or any one of the top ten.

When it comes time to choose a teacher warn them that you want to hear them play a musical piece they have recently learned. Whatever style you want to learn to play ask your prospective teacher who their favorite performers are and to name some of the current releases within that musical category. A teacher who is unfamiliar with the artists you want to emulate can do little to guide you in that direction.

Most teachers will have a set curriculum to start their student off with. A stock set of learning materials and basics, make sure you know what these are and how much they will cost. But as you progress into the second or third year of music a particular style will appeal to each student and the motivation, interest and willingness to continue will spring from the inspiration and stimulation provided by the teacher. Music teachers tend to be like hair stylists – once you find one you like you stick with them over the long term.

So when wondering what to ask your potential teacher; go beyond the basics of how long they have been teaching, what method do they use, and what schooling or other qualifications they have; and ask what style of music they play in their "off-hours", what bands or performers would they pay to see, what CD’s they own and what is radio station or CD is in their car stereo.