The teacher hasn’t tried to understand the brain

Red Flag #2

There is a way of teaching music that has been done for a long time.  And some teachers will always stick to these methods.

This situation is very much like the introduction of germ theory in the 19th century.  Before the concept of germs was widely accepted, there were a lot of medical methods that got used to help “heal” patients.  Without knowing the real cause of infections, doctors worked with what they were told and prescribed changes of air, leeches, bloodletting, and things we now think of as barbaric.  

However, when germs were discovered through the invention of the microscope, medical practice changed.  Instead of dirty hands performing surgeries, medical professionals now ensured they they had clean hands around wounds.  

Well - most doctors.  There were hold outs, for decades.  Some doctors were adamant that germ theory was a myth, and that the most effective treatments were already “tried and true.” 

We are in the same position now with music teachers.  Since the invention of the functional MRI in the late 1990s, we have learned so much about how the brain functions during the learning and production of music.  This knowledge should change how we work with students.

But there will be some who won’t.  

If your child is suffering with a music teacher - if they feel like they never play well enough, are discouraged in their practice, or don’t want to go to lessons or classes- it’s a big red flag.  Despite what is said, there is no need to “suffer for your art.” 

Music is inherently joyful.  If the teacher you find doesn’t believe that, it might be time to move on.