Ms. Crotchet calls time on tutti

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!