Group vs. individual music lessons?
Kudos to colleagues who teach mixed groups of instruments, standards and ages as their norm. I know some who battle groups of 30 Bb/Eb clarinet and sax beginners. They’re braver than me!
So I’m blessed…
That last week, in a group of three, some Year 4 clarinet beginners managed a few opening notes of Pink Panther in their third lesson. I was as surprised as they were. With help from parents who play a little clarinet, they managed the first phrase next lesson. Are they practising? Heaps!
But I am OVER mismatched groups!
I sent an email to parents last year:
“Dear parents,
To best realise your child’s potential and optimise your investment, consider:
GROUP LESSONS – Pro and Con:
- Group suits family budgets.
- They nibble a teensy taste of music.
- It’s sociable – if players are well matched and compatible.
- BUT age, instruments and standards often vary.
- Little scope for timetable changes, or adjustment.
- 2 students in 30’ group = 15’ each.
- 3 students in 30’ group = 10’ each. Pieces chosen for the group pace.
- Time goes on aspects where Matt struggles but Jake plays easily.
- Fingers twiddle while Mr. Quaver fixes a student’s bent key.
- If a student misses a lesson that others attend, there’s no scope for make-up.
- Exams aren’t feasible for groups with little time to cover all aspects. Ms. Crotchet talks staccato sfz, marcato, V between brows.
- Presto to hear what students practised and give new pieces.
- If no time to play all they prepared, why practice next week? They lose interest.
Practice dwindles > performance nerves
They need Ruth’s books (check the half-price deals and class sets).
Capable students stop lessons if frustrated, wasting talent and parents’ investment.
PRIVATE LESSONS
- Negotiate timetable for premium times in break/before class.
- Make-up lessons if 24 hours’ notice of illness or tests.
- With teacher’s undivided attention, students move at their own, faster pace.
- Ms. Dolce chooses pieces and styles they like, is enthusiastic, relaxed and fun.
- Exams and competitions are well prepared, so high results are likely.
- Students set and meet goals, enjoy challenges, realise potential and SHINE IN PERFORMANCE!”
Andante con momentum
It was a risk. But this year, Mrs Dolce’s schedule is full, her days long, but she emerges grazioso!