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.
As summer approaches, many parents ask: "Should my child take a break from piano, or keep learning over the holidays?" The answer will be different for every family, but one thing is clear: long summer breaks can make it harder for children to regain confidence and momentum when lessons resume. That's where summer booster classes can help. Why Do Children Benefit From Summer Learning? Like many skills, piano develops through consistency. After several weeks away from the instrument, children often need time to rebuild: Finger strength and coordination Reading confidence Familiarity with pieces Practice routines A small amount of learning over the summer can make returning in September feel much easier. A Booster Class Isn't About Doing More Many parents hear the word "booster" and imagine intensive learning. In reality, it's about reinforcing what your child already knows while introducing a few new ideas in an enjoyable way. Children often leave feeling refreshed and motivated rather than overwhelmed. Who Are Booster Classes Suitable For? Summer booster classes can benefit children who: Would like to maintain progress over the holidays. They have recently started lessons and are building confidence. Are preparing for a performance or exam later in the year. Simply enjoy music and would like an extra opportunity to learn. They're also a great option for children who have been away on holiday and would like a gentle refresher before the new term begins. How Parents Can Make the Most of Summer Alongside booster classes, you can: Keep practice short and enjoyable. Listen to piano music together. Encourage your child to play favourite pieces for family. Celebrate consistency rather than perfection. A Final Thought Summer doesn't have to be about choosing between intensive learning and taking a complete break. Sometimes, one or two well-timed booster sessions are enough to maintain confidence, strengthen skills and help children return to lessons feeling excited for the new term. If you have any questions we’re always happy to help you make it work. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out!
Many parents naturally wonder: "Is there anything we can do to help our child progress faster?" The answer is “yes!” But surprisingly, it isn't always about practising for longer. Often, it's about practising smarter and supporting learning more effectively. Focus on Quality Over Quantity Twenty focused minutes is often more valuable than forty distracted ones. Encourage your child to: Work on one small section at a time Repeat challenging passages slowly Celebrate small improvements Progress is built through quality repetitions. Listen to More Music Children who regularly listen to music often develop stronger musical awareness. Try: Piano versions of favourite songs Film soundtracks Classical pieces Live performances online The more children hear music, the more naturally they understand it. Encourage Independent Problem Solving Before giving answers, try asking: "What do you think your teacher would suggest?" This develops independence and musical thinking. Over time, children become less reliant on reminders and more capable of self-correction. Protect Enjoyment One of the quickest ways to slow progress is to turn learning into pressure. Children tend to improve most when they: Feel capable Enjoy lessons Experience regular success Confidence fuels motivation, and motivation fuels progress. Think in Months, Rather than in Days One of the most powerful shifts parents can make is focusing on long-term growth. Instead of asking: "Why isn't this perfect yet?" Ask: "Are they stronger than they were three months ago?" Small improvements compound over time. A Final Thought The children who make the greatest progress are rarely the ones under the most pressure. They're usually the ones who stay engaged, curious, and consistent. When enjoyment and effort work together, progress tends to follow naturally. If you have any questions we’re always happy to help you make it work. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out!
You don't need to be musical to create a meaningful difference in your child’s piano journey. Many parents tell us: "I'd love to help more, but I don't play an instrument." The good news? You don't need to understand music theory or read notation to support your child's progress. Some of the most impactful support has nothing to do with musical knowledge. Create a Consistent Environment Children thrive on routine. Rather than focusing on long practice sessions, focus on: A regular practice time A quiet environment Minimal distractions Consistency often matters more than duration. Ask Questions Instead of: "Did you practise?" Try: "What did you improve today?" Or: "What are you most proud of this week?" These questions encourage reflection and ownership. Celebrate Effort, Rather than Talent Research consistently shows that children develop greater resilience when effort is praised rather than natural ability. For example: Instead of: "You're so talented." Try: "I noticed how patient you were with that tricky section." This encourages a growth mindset. Stay Connected With the Teacher You don't need lengthy conversations. Simply asking: "What's one thing we should focus on this week?" This can provide clarity and confidence. Small conversations often lead to significant improvements. A Final Thought Children make the best progress when lessons and home support work together. It’s absolutely fine that you are not musically qualified or a teacher yourself. You can be the encouragement they are looking for at home. Now that role is incredibly powerful. If you have any questions we’re always happy to help you make it work. If you have any questions please feel free to reach out!
