First off, ask yourself, “Am I happy with the way I play?”
If you are happy with the way you play, you probably don’t need private music lessons. If you are not happy with the way you play, you probably do! (Though an experienced musician very often just needs to practice more!)
(I could actually end this blog right here!)
In compiling my student’s goals over the years, (over 1,000 one-on-one students!), here are some common reasons why people take music lessons:
1. To learn an instrument for fun.
2. To learn an instrument as a profession.
3. To get unstuck from where they are and move ahead.
4. To improve their timing (rhythm).
5. To play the sounds they hear in their head.
6. To understand what they are already playing or singing.
7. To clear up confusions from past studies and playing/singing experience.
8. To have a fun and relaxing hobby.
9. To play with other people, for fun or professionally.
10. To improve their pitch.
11. To learn songs by ear.
12. To play by ear.
13. To improvise.
14. To read music.
15. To write songs and/or compose music.
16. To play a certain style of music.
17. To play better, in general, whether beginner or pro.
There are many ways to learn musical things: instructional videos, books, friends, websites, schools, self teaching, or all of the above. Some people do well with these methods, while some do not. And even when the above work, if someone doesn’t understand something, or wants to get better faster, a private instructor is usually sought out. (And, obvious or not, if someone wants to become a pro classical player lessons are the norm.)
So, If you’re stuck, want some guidance, or don’t know where to start, a good teacher can discover what you need to do and get you going.
Personal happiness is the bottom line.
So…, if you are happy with the way you play, you probably don’t need private music lessons. If you are not happy with the way you play, you probably do!
Marty B.
Email
(818) 242-7551
http://buttwinickmusic.com
