10 Ways to Inspire Your Music students

10 Ways to Inspire Your Music Students:

1. Connect.     Make the connection with your student and learn about what he or she likes and dislikes. Establishing a relationship with your music student will help you to recognize certain favorite musical styles he or she likes, and well as any of their preferences for singers, bands and musicians that will Inspire Your Music students.
2. Inquire.     Take time to ask your music students about what they want to learn, and where they see themselves in six months after taking lessons. Many students have ideas that they will be playing their favorite rock song on the guitar in no time, but they neglect to reveal their desires to you. Be sure to ask plenty of questions to help your student communicate how fast they want to progress and to what degree.
3. Relate.     Take time to recall how you felt when beginning music lessons, or after several months or years of taking lessons. Were you frustrated at times? Maybe there were instances where you felt defeated or uninspired. Think of these past events, as this will help you to relate better with how your student may be feeling today.
4. Change.     Being willing to change up curriculum or teaching styles is an important component to teaching music successfully. If your student begins expressing disinterest or boredom with a particular style, teaching method or curriculum you should try to change things up. It may be as simple as adding a new songbook to your piano routine, or instructing in a more creative fashion when teaching your drum lesson. The ability to change and be fluid with your instruction provides both your student and you flexibility and encouragement for future learning.
5. Celebrate.     Take the time to celebrate your student’s successes with them every so often. Some teacher’s hold a quarterly or half-yearly recital, and others have an informal open mike night every month for their students. In addition to offering your students the opportunity to perform their accomplishments publicly, offer them positive feedback and compliments on a regular basis.
6. Communicate.     Communication is vital, particularly when you are teaching children. Have a method for keeping in touch with parents of your students, either via email, a website, blog, Facebook page or just a simple handwritten note. Offer the parents of your students praise and constructive criticism, as well as support for continuing their craft.
7. Play.Many students feel more comfortable playing alongside others, and who better to play along with than you? Sometimes the comfort of having an instructor play beside a student can be just the inspiration that student needs to feel more confident to play and practice on his or her own.
8. Relax.     Sometimes a short break from the rigors of practice can be just the thing to rejuvenate the spirits of a weary music student. You may wish to institute a practice break for your student every so often, like every four to six months, for a week.  During their “break” your students can play whatever they wish to play on their instrument, and not follow the set regimen of practice. This little break can give your students a chance to express their creative side and enjoy playing their instrument without the pressure of perfection.
9. Learn.     Keeping up with the latest trends and technologies in the music world makes you a viable and well-rounded instructor. Your student will likely be thrilled to share the latest happenings on Facebook, Vine and on the World Wide Web. Take time each week to catch yourself up on the latest music news and happenings. You are never too old to learn new things.
10. Persevere.      Inspiration is often formed from perseverance. Continue to encourage your music students to pursue their craft, and persevere with lessons and practice. Perseverance is important for you too, as striving to instruct students in the wonderful world of music is a feat unto itself. Enjoy the journey!