I Have Just Got My First Pupil - Help! Options

[pizazz]

Today I have finally got my first pupil which I am over the moon about!! However, she is an adult and a complete beginner but most of the music I have is for children with lots of colourful pictures!! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/blush.gif)

I was wondering if anyone can recommend a beginners course for adults - the only one I have heard of is Pianoworks by Oxford. Is this one worth getting or are there any others you can recommend?

Also, as it is my first lesson I'm a little bit nervous about it, I know I can teach and I am very passionate about it but can any of you very experienced teachers give me a few tips on what the do's and dont's are during a first lesson? As my pupil is a complete beginner, I don't want to get into too much detail and scare her away!!! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/huh.gif)

[sbhoa]

I normally offer a choice of 2 or 3 books that I'm happy to work with.
Some adults are quite happy with and even prefer a children's book.
If you can the best thing is to browse your usual music shop for books you would feel happy working with.

[aspiringmusicteacher]

Well done on your first pupil! I was in the same situation a couple of months ago; you won't regret it, private teaching is one of the most wonderful and satisfying things you could ever do!

Someone on the forums recommended that I look at Piano Adventures (www.pianoteaching.com); they do books for younger beginners but also for older children and adults. They are really fun without being too patronising and I'd certainly recommend them! Depending on how serious your pupil is about lessons, you could also look at methods like Fanny Waterman (always a favourite), Czerny, etc.

Good Luck! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

[SueHM]

I like Pianoworks and have 2 students working from it at present. It comes with a CD that they can listen to and play along with - can be a bit disheartening if their piano is not at concert pitch and they may struggle to cope with speed of recordings. The Carol Barratt tutor for older beginners is also good and has lots of accompaniments for teacher to play along. There is a lovely new adult tutor from Hal Leonard too that has bits of improvisation in - all my students love this. Recommend you get down to your local music shop and have a good browse!

[maggiemay]

The Classic Piano Course can work quite well with a bright adult, or one with a little previous knowledge, but it goes too fast for some. (Carol Barratt)

I find quite a few adults like the Oxford Piano Time (book one at any rate) although it looks young.
I 've had a flyer about Pianoworks, but not used it yet - anyone tried it and care to comment ?

(ed just read yours, thanks Sue)

(further ed)
Don't aim to do too much in a first lesson. Something like ... names of notes on the keyboard, a few minutes on hand / arm / finger position, and a simple tune to play at home (by rote is fine at this stage) may be enough - it's what I did with a new adult student yesterday, (except no instrument at home yet so instead of a tune to play we did a little simple rhythm work, reading crotchets and minims. )

Good luck - hope your teaching goes well.

[pizazz]

Thanks for your comments & help so far. Looks like I will be visiting the music shop this week!! (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

[chocolatedog]

I've been using Faber & Faber Adult Piano Adventures with my adult pupils, especially those who have no prior musical training at all - and it works pretty well. Moves at a gentle pace. For adults who used to learn when they were younger, maybe Carol Barratt's Adult Course, or Wedgwood "It's Never Too Late To Learn Piano" might be better.....

[pizazz]

I've been using Faber & Faber Adult Piano Adventures with my adult pupils, especially those who have no prior musical training at all - and it works pretty well. Moves at a gentle pace. For adults who used to learn when they were younger, maybe Carol Barratt's Adult Course, or Wedgwood "It's Never Too Late To Learn Piano" might be better.....

Thanks (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)

The lady I'm going to teach has had no musical training in the past so I will have a look at the Faber & Faber one!

[elvaretta]

Hahaha...I am sure you're very excited with your new student.

Firstly, you should ask them whether they want to learn play classical or pop.
Second, prepare yourself even more because adult student tends to ask more. But don't be afraid, you're the teacher, so they completely trust you. =)
Third, be confident.

I hope it helps.

[chordie]

I've been using Alfred Adult Piano Course. It's a combination of classical and pop and country pieces...so far so good (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)