Reshmi Patel • April 26, 2021
How to Find Your Perfect Piano Teacher
With so many piano teachers out there with a variety of different teaching methods and approaches, it’s so easy to know which teacher will support you and your needs as an aspiring musician.
To help support you in your journey, I’ve compiled a list which will support you in choosing the perfect piano teacher for you!
1. Do your research
In the music industry today, there are so many unqualified teachers who don’t have an education or background in music. Both myself, my teacher and some of my current students have experienced this! Therefore, we decided to use this as an opportunity to share what we learnt.
Personally, I prefer a teacher who can play so that they can empathise with my struggles and demonstrate different techniques if required to do so.
If you are looking to learn grades or a specific genre of music then have a read into the teacher’s background as they may specialise in teacher one or the other.
2. Individualised Approach
Everyone learns differently. Some may prefer visual prompts, some auditory and others kinaesthetic resources and materials. It may be useful to check on the teacher’s website or contact them to ask them how they would tailor their resources to best help you succeed.
3. Consistency
If they are consistent, they are committed.
How often do they teach and does this work with your timetable?
If your teacher can fit you in for regular sessions – say once or twice per week then this will help both your progress and accountability both in the short and long term.
4. Previous Results
Ask your chosen teacher what their other students have achieved since learning with them and use this this as a measurement of their delivery and skill set.
5. Open to new musical ideas
There are some teachers who solely specialise in teaching one genre of music whilst there are others who teacher a mixture of genres.
If you wish to master one particular style of music then choose a teacher who can meet these needs. However, if you choose to be a musician with a variety of skills then choose a teacher who can meet these needs instead.
Remember that when you are trying out these hacks to look at them little and often but also be patient with yourself. If you wish to know more about these hacks and resources, feel free to take a look around our website or connect with us directly.
To find out more, feel free to get involved in our latest project “The Habits of the Top Performing Piano Players”, fill out our survey: https://bit.ly/2FDs8rf
For your chance to win a Nintendo DS Lite or a £50 Amazon Gift Voucher.
Every child learns piano for different reasons and their goals can (and should!) reflect who they are. Some children love structure. Some crave creativity. Some enjoy performing, while others prefer playing quietly for themselves. Understanding the different pathways available helps parents support their child more confidently and avoid unnecessary pressure. 1. Every Child’s Musical Journey Is Unique There isn’t a single “correct” goal for piano. Children can learn for: ● Fun ● Confidence ● Academic benefit ● Creativity ● Examinations ● Performance opportunities ● Emotional well-being Sometimes one goal leads into another and that’s part of the magic! 2. The Most Common Piano Goals (and How They Help) Creative Development Improvisation, composing, arranging popular songs Benefits: imagination, confidence, emotional expression Skill Building Technique, fluency, accuracy Benefits: discipline, brain development Performance Confidence School concerts, family recitals Benefits: public speaking confidence, resilience Exam Pathway (Optional) Grading Benefits: structured progression, sense of achievement Well-being and Relaxation Playing for joy and calm Benefits: mental balance, stress relief Actionable Tip One Ask your child: “What do you enjoy most about the piano?” Their answer often reveals what their goals naturally should be. If you’d like help identifying what motivates your child, feel free to message us - we can offer insight based on how they learn in lessons. 3. Choosing the Right Goal for Your Child’s Age and Personality Here are some ideas but please note these are not fixed as it does depend on the personality, strengths and goals of your child. Ages 5–7: Short wins, fun pieces, confidence-building Ages 8–11: Structure, pieces they recognise, balanced challenge Ages 11–14: Identity, creative choice, performance opportunities Teens: Style exploration, exam strategy, personal expression Actionable Tip Two Create a simple “one-term goal” together: Examples: ● “Learn two pieces I love” ● “Perform at the next school concert” ● “Take my Grade 1 when I feel ready” ● “Compose a short melody” One achievable goal can dramatically boost motivation. 4. Goals Can Change (And That’s Healthy!) Children go through phases - more academic pressure, emotional changes, shifting interests. Their piano goals should evolve with them. This is why regular communication with your teacher is so important. If you’re unsure what goals suit your child best - or you’d like help setting motivating, realistic targets - you’re welcome to message us anytime. We love helping parents understand what’s right for their child.
Christmas is a time for family, fun, and a much-needed pause from rigid routines. If your child learns the piano, you might be wondering how to keep music ticking along without it feeling like yet another thing to manage during an already busy season. The good news? Piano progress doesn’t stop just because formal practice looks different. Small, intentional musical moments can go a long way especially for children aged 6–8. Here are three simple, low-pressure ways to support your child’s piano learning over Christmas. 1. Reframe “Practice” as “Play” One small word change can make a big difference. Instead of saying “Go and practise the piano”, try: “Can you play me something on the piano?” “What would you like to play today?” “Can you show me your favourite part?” Why this helps: Children associate play with freedom and enjoyment It removes the pressure of “doing it right” It encourages curiosity rather than resistance Ask your child to play one thing only - even if it’s just 30 seconds. A tiny win keeps confidence high and avoids overwhelm. 2. Use Everyday Listening to Spark Musical Interest You don’t need to be musical to support your child’s ear for music. Listening to piano-based music in the car, while cooking, or during downtime helps children absorb rhythm, mood, and musical patterns naturally. Try: Film soundtracks with piano Calm pop songs featuring piano Instrumental background music during quiet time How to make this interactive (without a lesson): “Does this sound happy or calm?” “Is the piano playing loudly or softly here?” “Would this be fast or slow to play?” These simple questions build musical awareness without sitting at the piano at all. 3. Turn Music Theory Into a Game Theory doesn’t need to feel formal - especially at Christmas. Short, playful theory moments can actually strengthen understanding and help your child feel more confident when they return to lessons. Easy ideas: Flashcards at the breakfast table A 2-minute quiz before bed “How fast can you name these notes?” challenges Keep it light: No correcting every mistake Celebrate effort over accuracy Stop while it’s still fun Set a timer for 2–5 minutes only. Ending early keeps children keen rather than tired. A Final Thought for Parents If the piano looks different over Christmas, that’s completely okay. What matters most is that: Your child feels positive about music The piano remains a friendly, familiar space Learning continues in small, manageable ways These gentle approaches help children return to lessons feeling confident not behind. If you ever want ideas tailored to your child’s age or level, we’re always happy to help support. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions!
Choosing the right piano teacher can shape your child’s enjoyment, confidence and long-term progress. A great teacher doesn’t just teach notes; they inspire, guide, encourage, and adapt to your child’s needs. Here’s what parents should look for when choosing a piano teacher. 1. A Teacher Who Understands Children, Not Just Music A brilliant performer doesn’t always make a brilliant teacher. Your child needs someone who understands learning styles, motivation and confidence levels, age-appropriate expectations, and emotional development. Good teaching feels like support, encouragement, and clear direction rather than pressure. Actionable Tip One After each lesson, ask your child one simple question: “What did you enjoy most today?” Their answer will tell you a lot about whether the teacher understands how to make learning feel positive and age-appropriate. If answers become consistently negative or vague, feel free to reach out to us for guidance. 2. A Teacher Who Communicates Clearly With Parents Parents should never feel in the dark about their child’s learning. A great teacher explains what your child is working on, why certain pieces are chosen, how practice can be supported at home, and how progress is developing over time. A teacher who welcomes questions helps make the whole journey smoother. Actionable Tip Two Set aside one minute after lessons to quickly note what the teacher mentioned or demonstrated. Even a short note, such as “Focus on left hand this week”, helps you stay connected and gives your child consistent support at home. If you’re unsure about anything, you can always ask us for clarification. 3. A Structured, Thoughtful Approach to Progress Children thrive when their learning is organised and tailored. A high-quality teacher provides a clear pathway of progression, goals matched to your child’s age and personality, a healthy mix of repertoire that includes classical, pop or film music, and a balance between fun and skill-building. Exams are offered as an option when appropriate, not a pressure. Actionable Tip Three Try a termly mini check-in with your child’s teacher. Ask three simple questions: 1. “What skill is my child currently developing?” 2. “What’s going well?” 3. “What can we support at home?” This keeps learning aligned, clear and motivating. Great teachers welcome these conversations, and we are always happy to talk with you. 4. A Teacher Who Understands Local Expectations Parents in Stanmore, Edgware, Canons Park and Hatch End often prepare children for the 11+, value discipline and routine, seek activities that build confidence, and prefer structured learning. A teacher who understands your local culture and expectations can support your child more effectively and tailor lessons with these needs in mind. Actionable Tip Four Share your family’s educational goals with the teacher at the start of the year. Whether you want improved confidence, support during 11+ preparation, or a balanced creative outlet, this helps the teacher shape lessons that truly complement your child’s wider development. If you’re unsure what goals would suit your child, feel free to ask us. If you want to understand what high-quality piano teaching looks like or whether your child’s current lessons are meeting their needs, feel free to contact us. We are here to help guide you toward the best experience for your child.
