Growing up, I had a few piano teachers. One that really stands out to me is my college piano teacher. The reason why he made an impact is that he helped me feel capable and confident, pushing me to put in the work and try my best. I never felt like I couldn’t attain the standards he set, and he helped me to reach them one step at a time.

In my piano teaching, these principles are important as well. Not only do I apply them to myself again to help me continue to grow as a teacher, but I also use them with my students. One way that I work to incorporate these principles in my teaching is to use “off-the bench” games that reinforce what they are learning. Games meet students right where they’re at and turn a tough concept into an attainable challenge they desire to conquer.

Another way that I instill the principles of confidence, work ethic, and leading students one step at a time is by using kind words of encouragement. Anatole France said, “Nine-tenths of education is encouragement.” I never use negative comments or criticisms when helping students learn. Kindly, I give praise for what worked well, and offer simple solutions for areas that need a little work.

Along those same lines, I ease students in to learning new songs. By using three simple steps before a student even starts sight-reading a song, I am able to help them achieve their goals one step at a time. My three simple steps are overview, listening, and rhythm tapping. Playing piano requires your brain and hands to be doing multiple things at the same time. When I begin with these three steps, it helps their brains and hands to be able to practice just one thing at a time, thereby helping them feel and be more capable and confident.

In conclusion, teaching matters to me because through it, I am able to instill confidence, a good work ethic, and help students reach their goals. Most importantly, these principles do not just help students with their musical goals, but they carry over into regular life as well. Who doesn’t need more confidence, a better work ethic, and help reaching goals? I know I do and did. I’ll bet you and your children do, too. What a gift music is that we can learn all that. Teaching music matters because it’s not just about the song, but about life, too.