Even though you feel frustrated with your search so far, I would not mention the negative experiences to the new teacher unless it is relevent. As a harp teacher I always approach with a little caution when a student is negative towards another teacher. Sometimes there is good reason for it, but it is almost impossible to know for certain. There are a few people out there who don’t take responsibility for their progress and bounce from teacher to teacher with a highly critical attitude.

That being said… You have many good ideas regarding questions to ask in your posts already. You may also ask how much emphasis they place on student goals, if they are flexible with repertoire, etc. When working with adults these are always important issues to respect. It is helpful if they have taught other adults. Also ask what their training is to find out if they have degrees in harp or years of lessons.

You may also wish to contact the American Harp Society since they have a large listing of teachers with contact information.

Sandy, please read the thread in this same Teaching forum called “Getting the right teacher”. Another adult student asked a similar question and there are some important responses for adult learners to read. Teaching adult beginners is a different ball game. I spent the last three years in a rural environment and about half of my students were adult beginners. My two retired students consistently practiced 2-4 hours daily. Others did not. The issues are more complex for adult beginners because they have more responsibilities. They are also used to being highly proficient in their work. It is important to work to dispel anxiety and self criticism in adult students. Once these are out of the way, they can more easily learn.

While it is ideal for a student to work hard to get the most out of their lessons, there is a second, equally important thing to accomplish. This is to instill a love for music and for the harp. I have been willing to work with adult students who have amateur goals and limited practice time because we are working together to instill a deeper appreciation for the harp. This is an important job because we need to train both concert harpists and those who will attend their concerts. The amateur student is the audience for the gifted performer. They can also contribute to their friends and community in a meaningful way. I see each student as a different kind of flower: some are orchids, some are daisies, but each can be perfect in what they are.

Hi Sandy, it should be said that you sound like a student any teacher would be happy and proud to work with. Best wishes in your search. It sounds as though you are in a location that is ripe with possibilities. 🙂