Adult Music Lessons

Here are some suggestions to make lessons successful for you!

Set Goals!

Weekly Goals One of the first keys to successful lessons is to appreciate the small victories. Every week! Every time you put your hands on your instrument you make progress, whether you can see it or not.

Your weekly assignments are actually weekly goals. Every time you play a new song, finger exercise, or just a couple of measures – you’ve succeeded!

Be Responsible

Attend every lesson—even if you haven’t been able to practice much. Bring your books and materials every week.

Be Honest– Tell your teacher when you don’t understand something. Don’t just sit and nod (thinking that you’ll go home and figure it out on your own). It’s really OK! Your teacher wants you to understand! He/she will be happy to explain differently.

Have a Great Attitude

Be Teachable. Be willing to listen and accept instruction and correction. This tip is true for everyone, young and old.
We find that adults – who are used to making decisions for themselves every day – have the hardest time adjusting to being a student again.

Enjoy not having to decide for yourself. Trust your teacher. You will learn more quickly and more successfully.

Have Fun

Just Play! Don’t just do your assigned work. Sit down at your instrument, without books or music, and just noodle around. Find a musical sentence in your hands that sounds good. Just go with it. Don’t censor yourself- just play! (And by the way – that’s all there is to composing!)

I can guarantee your teacher wants you to enjoy your lessons, and enjoy learning to play. Your teacher is your coach and one of your biggest fans! They want you to succeed!

Be Honest

Tell your teacher when you don’t understand something. Don’t just sit and nod (thinking that you’ll go home and figure it out on your own). It’s really OK! Your teacher wants you to understand! He/she will be happy to explain differently.