Why Private Lessons?
It is a common misconception that private music instruction is a form a remediation. Although true in some cases, private lessons also improve musical skills in talented and motivated students. One-on-one instruction is a complement to an in-school band education. The private instructor isolates a student’s strengths and weaknesses to create a individualized program that provides greater potential for improvement. Students in private lessons will progress at a faster rate than those only in band class, thereby augmenting benefits of a music education. In addition, students who feel successful in their instrument will enjoy participation in its related activities even more. Regardless of the student’s level, it is never too early or late to take private lessons. Beginners work to develop solid fundamentals, which save months or years of frustrating attempts to fix bad habits. Intermediate and advanced players continue to work with fundamentals and reach higher levels of music making. By creating strong ensemble player, section leader, or potential soloist, the student will not only hone his/her craft, but also become a probable lifelong musician.
Hiring a Private Teacher.
Whether you are a beginner or advanced, having a competent private instructor is vital to your continued success as a trumpeter. Identifying competent instructors can be a challenge, as anyone with seemingly more information than you could be considered an authority.
The world of brass pedagogy is relatively young compared to other instruments (such as violin and flute). As such, there are many different opinions and points of study. You will encounter teachers who simply “teach as they were taught” and are unable to diagnose, as well as those who only teach by playing at their students, and are unable to identify and solve issues.
And just to make things worse, you will encounter teachers with differing opinions on tongue placement, mouthpiece placement, multiple tongue practice, warm up methodology, equipment preferences, and playing form. These opinions are almost never based on empirical research but on preference and opinion.
The important piece of advice is to DO YOUR RESEARCH, and find a teacher who understands the mechanics of playing and has a track record of applying this to students!
Standard Lesson Information