Throughout my first year in business I have had students come and go, developing a core group of kids that have stuck around and continue to take their lessons and sessions seriously. Some kids make it a few months while others end lessons after a year. Dealing with students leaving a studio can muster a mixed bag of emotions, everything from sadness or frustration to almost a sense of relief. No matter the situation, I always try to remember one thing, it’s not my fault.
I tend blame myself when anything goes wrong, wondering what I could have done to make things better. However, when I lose a student, it is almost NEVER my fault. Generally, I can tell when our time is coming to an end. There are a few signs: the student is acting out, losing focus, testing boundaries, or stops caring. Though I try my best to make learning fun and make the learning experience individualized,, some kids just don’t have interest in learning an instrument… and that is OK! Remembering that not all kids will have an easy time with music or that they won’t all enjoy lessons can be challenging, but I try to realize every student as their own individual, with their own interests.
Lack of interest can be one of the reasons families discontinue lessons, but other students may quit because of family issues, moving, sports, other activities, siblings, school, etc. The list is endless!
For parents deciding if continuing lessons is appropriate or not, consider the following:
- Feedback will help the instructor better understand the child’s wants and needs.
- Enjoying music is important in fostering a pleasant learning experience
- There is more to lessons that just learning notes and rhythms. The student needs to listen, interact appropriately, and follow directions. They may not be struggling with the music but instead with their behavior.
- Learning takes time, patience, persistence,and practice! It won’t happen over night!
- It gets hard and sometimes life gets in the way. Know that you can take a break if you need to!
- Ending lessons won’t hurt the instructors feelings! Be honest and let them know a few weeks in advance so they can plan for termination of lessons and appropriately say goodbye to the student.
- Stick with your gut. You know your child better than anyone. Talk to them and see what they need!
Have a splendid week and enjoy making music