Every student comes to a piano lesson with their own unique personality.
They also come with their life story trailing behind them.
This can especially play a role when teaching a sensitive student.
You might not know what’s going on in their life. When they’re on the verge of tears for not passes a song–that they clearly weren’t ready to pass–they might be having a flashback to another time they’ve failed, and deep inside they might feel like they never measure up. They might feel insecure. Or, it might just have been a hard day for them.
We don’t know the whole story.
But we do know they’re sensitive, and thus they should be taught with a caring heart.
What has been the best help I’ve found in teaching a sensitive student?
I have much to learn, but the best help I can offer right now is one word:
Communication
Communication is always important, but especially with a sensitive student. Saying “You’re doing well, but you need more work on this song next week,” might be enough for tears to well up before you’ve even begun to instruct them on how to improve the song.
You’ve got to get to the root of the tears or why their face is so downcast.
- They might be comparing themselves to their older sibling who mastered the song in one week, and now they’re on their third, and feeling like less.
- It might be that they hate the song.
- It might be that they thought they had the song down pat, and feel like you’re being hard on them.
In each of these scenarios, some gentle conversing can ease the emotions welling up. Good communication can boost their spirits, help them to work through their insecurity, and show them how gifted they are.
Make sure to praise your student whenever you can; their sensitive, learning hearts need it.
“You’re doing amazing!”
“I loved the dynamics you showed forth in that song.”
“I can tell that you worked very hard on this song this week.”
“You’ve learned so much.”
“I love being your teacher.”
Don’t push forward too hard.
Gently teach alongside them, striving to communicate well and be aware of their sensitivities, and you might be amazed at how your student begins to feel more comfortable, more accepted, more accomplished.
Watch them begin to blossom.
I’d love to hear from you..What’s your advice on teaching a sensitive student?
Piano with Joy 