Effective Teaching Strategies for Different Age Groups
By Stephanie L. Christianto
Teaching piano is an art that demands instructors to adjust their methods based on the age and background of their students. The way of teaching piano varies depended on the age of the student.
Age-Related Variances in Learning Preferences
For music teachers, understanding the learning preferences of different age groups is crucial. Younger adult students exhibit a greater willingness to embrace the unknown, responding positively when asked to improvise in group settings. Their eagerness to experiment fosters a cheerful learning environment. On the other hand, mature adult students, navigating life with a knowledge-first approach, may find trial-and-error learning inefficient and potentially embarrassing. Encouraging older adults to explore improvisation can yield exciting results, deepening their appreciation for the learning process.
Another disparity lies in the approach to memorization. Younger adults often rely on rote learning, assuming that memory will be readily available when needed. In contrast, older adults prefer the security of printed directions, recognizing that memory isn't always dependable. Recognizing and adapting to these variances are crucial for effective piano instruction.
Strategies for Relaxation and Tension Avoidance
Addressing the issue of bodily tension, music teachers can implement a simple yet effective strategy for adult students. Having them occasionally stand, stretch, bend, and move around during lessons disrupts prolonged concentration, helping them stay relaxed. This technique acknowledges the tendency of adults to maintain a high level of focus, sometimes to the detriment of physical comfort.
Additionally, incorporating musical activities that involve students playing for one another encourages a sense of camaraderie and shared learning. This not only makes the learning process more enjoyable but also reinforces the idea that music is a collaborative art.
Effective piano instruction for music teachers involves recognizing and accommodating the unique needs of different age groups and adapting teaching strategies to suit the specific context, be it an adult student's need for movement or a music major's desire for a holistic approach to musical development.
Source:
Uszler, Marienne., Stewart Gordon, and Scott McBride Smith. The Well-Tempered Keyboard Teacher. 2nd ed. New York: Schirmer Books, 2000.