"Achievement is largely the product of steadily raising one's levels of aspiration and expectation" - - Jack Nicklaus
6) Great Expectations
What I expect of students:
The main thing I expect of each student is a good effort. So what is "good effort"?
- • A "good effort" means you show up for your lesson on time with an instrument that is in playable condition. If there is a problem with your instrument, I expect you to tell your parents and/or me as soon as it arises. It is a situation to be dealt with, not an excuse to not practice.
- • A "good effort" means you show up at your lesson with all of your books, your assignment book and other materials. This is your responsibility, not your parents'.
- • A "good effort" means you work on all the assigned music, every day, at least enough to make one thing better.
- • I expect students to listen carefully to lots of music, both recorded and live, in various styles. You are what you eat!
What I expect of parents:
- I expect parents to monitor and support their child's meeting the above expectations. This might start by going over each point with your child.
This may involve laying down the law. Practice is not optional. It is an integral part of this program.
- I expect parents to have their child at the lesson on time.
- I expect parents to support and adhere to my policies on attendance and cancellation. This not only assures that our business relationship will run smoothly but sets a positive example for your child in terms of honoring agreements and treating others with respect..
What I expect of myself:
- I expect myself to be on time, in tune and otherwise entirely professional.
- I expect myself to support each student in all aspects of their musical adventure.
- I expect to be available to answer any questions that my students or their parents may have.
The above suggestions come from years of teaching and performing experience. They are presented with the intent to optimize the benefit students may receive from my instruction.
