I have found the most difficult student to teach is one who seems unable to recognize their need to learn. Confidence is necessary for growth, but arrogance halts the learning process. Some research has indicated that a high degree of incompetence robs the individual of the ability to evaluate skill in themselves or others, leaving them unable to judge their own inadequacies. This can occur at different stages of learning. When a student is able to produce music on the same level they are able to perceive music, they can conclude that they have learned everything, knowing as much or more than the teacher. I have been working to devise strategies to help such students perceive themselves more accurately which is necessary for their continued growth. It requires humility to recognize our shortcomings and confidence to believe we can overcome them.

Practicing. Making the harp a priority, taking a real interest in it. Respecting their teacher and implementing their suggestions.

A student who has an interest in music that is not limited to harp playing, a student who can grow and improve, who learns and absorbs from their teacher, (the best student is like a sponge), one who has determination, vision, stubborness when needed, a great ear and comprehension of music, time to practice; and parents who provide what’s needed without being intrusive, critical or judgemental (leave that to the teacher), who believe in culture and music and think it is important and worth prioritizingt, who realize it is a long process, and hopefully they might know some of the “right” people. Having some money helps, but the other qualities are the most important. Parents who don’t prioritize education or music, who are critical, judgemental, unwilling to learn and grow, cheap, competitive with their children, selfish, and what else can get in the way. It would be interesting if there was a show called Child Swap along with Wife Swap, except both concepts are kind of horrible.

On the other hand, the best teacher is inspiring, leading, understanding, sensitive, tough, demanding, realistic, and is knowledgable, artistic, with good taste and discrimination.

I was thinking about this thread and perhaps it is worth softening the terms “good” and “bad”. I have taught students from many different backgrounds from ages 5 to 75. I don’t think of any of them as “bad students”, although some were harder to reach than others. There are students who are naturally effective learners and others who struggle because of ability, attitudes, schedules, etc. I enjoy the bright student who practices and with whom you can see your efforts working right away, but in some ways the challenging ones make me learn more as a teacher. The best moments are when as a teacher I can find some way to help the student learn especially when it was difficult. I mentioned struggles with students who resist learning because they have been encouraged to think there is nothing left to know. I’ve learned a little about breaking through that mindset, but am still learning. The truth is that there are always reasons for the way people think and act. Compelling reasons. Understanding the world from inside their perspective is important to help them learn.

It is important to separate the value of the individual from their skill and performance. There are no “good” or “bad” students, but just people with various limitations who have good days and bad days, good years and bad years.