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"Don'ts for Parents of Piano Students" by Norman H. Harney

Don't be too eager to have your child progress rapidly in his music studies. Remember that the student who is farthest advanced at eight or ten years of age will not necessarily be in the lead at fifteen.

Don't engage a teacher merely because he or she is a brilliant performer. It may well be that of two men or women the less showy player is the better teacher.

Don't forget that, while it is a great mistake to select a teacher because he is cheap, it is just as serious an error to engage one merely because his price is high. It does not follow that he is the best available instructor.

Don't be too hasty about dismissing a new teacher because your child has expressed a dislike for him or her. It may be a temporary dislike, which will wear off in a short time. On the other hand, don't insist on your child studying with a person for whom he has developed a permanent dislike.

Don't speak slightingly in your child's presence of the person in whose hands you have placed his musical education. If you have any criticisms to make, it will be not only fairer, but also more effective, to bring them directly to the teacher.

Don't fail to cooperate with the teacher. The teacher needs your help and your child will reap the benefit.

Don't hesitate about giving the teacher a free hand in the training of your child. If you have not sufficient confidence in him to do so, it would be better to engage another instructor.

Don't expect the teacher to extend special favors to your child because you regard him or her as a little genius. If your child has exceptional gifts, the teacher will soon discover them and will know how to act.

Don't give your child cause to feel that you are too closely or jealously watching his or her progress. Young people are likely to resent such an attitude. On the other hand, don't fail to display a sympathetic interest in the work your child is doing. A bit of advice, a word of encouragement, a friendly suggestion, a little praise, if judiciously administered, will be helpful and stimulating.

About this article

This article, written by Norman H. Harney, was taken from the May 1923 issue of "Etude Musical Magazine."

Emily Sigers
emily@thepianopages.com