Getting the right teacher

[unknown-user]

It’s fine to try out different teachers–but don’t hide it from them. Call them up and tell them your history and the problems you’ve had, and say that you’d like to try having a couple of lessons to see if you two are compatible. You may even want to have a preliminary “lesson” where you can talk about what you’ll be learning, his/her teaching techniques, etc. Beware though, unless you’re moving to a city there probably won’t be many teachers to choose from (if any!).

If you can practice using correct hand position, then do it. I would be careful of forming habits with a poor hand position, though. Try to get those lessons as soon as possible.

Good luck!

[unknown-user]

I am looking for the right harp teacher that would suit me

personality wise.

[unknown-user]

Your history and experiences with harp are common to many adult beginners. Adults deal with challenges that are different from children in the learning process. You mentioned that you play better when you allow yourself to daydream a little. That is because this is a more relaxed, less critical state of mind. Adults have achieved a high level of skill in their professions and domestic skills, so they are accustomed to feeling very competant. Adults tend to put more pressure on themselves in the learning process because of this. Also, adults have so many committments and responsibilities that they generally can’t just sit down and play for hours, so practice time can be variable. If you can find a teacher who has worked with a number of adult beginners successfully, this teacher is likely to understand your needs. You need a teacher who can show you the best technique for your health and to streamline the learning process. However, you need a teacher that will not put undue pressure on you, since most adults are quite capable of doing that for themselves! Find out what teachers you have to choose from and talk to all of them. Remember, it’s okay if a teacher doesn’t work out. You can always quit and find another. It’s important to never give up an instrument because of the wrong teacher.

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