Well I did the group piano lessons today - must be completely mad - what was I thinking of!

I had two keyboards, with two children seated at one, and one at the other. I made the mistake of having them at opposite ends of the room so I had to keep running from one end to the other. Must sort that out next time.

The first group of three were so over-excited that they just kept playing chopsticks all the time to show me how they could already "play the piano". This would be just about OK except that they all kept doing it at the same time!

One of the group would not stop talking over me, and everything I said she replied "I already know that". Another kept changing the sound on her keyboard. I hardly got a word in edge-ways and I needed a lie-down in a darkened room afterwards.

The second group were older, and much easier to manage. Only problem was one of them was way ahead of the others and I didn't really know how to handle this. I am sure the other two will catch up pretty quickly so I don't really want to separate them, but how can I keep him interested while the others get to his level? Any ideas gratefully received!

QUOTE

The first group of three were so over-excited that they just kept playing chopsticks all the time to show me how they could already "play the piano". This would be just about OK except that they all kept doing it at the same time! One of the group would not stop talking over me, and everything I said she replied "I already know that". Another kept changing the sound on her keyboard. I hardly got a word in edge-ways...

Mmmm I know that feeling! Somehow they need to take on board that if they interrupt or play out of turn they will miss out in some way. Easy to say but harder to do; it may take a few lessons for them to learn your "system". Be very clear what you will accept and what you will not. Let them know that in order for everyone to have a fair go it needs to be a bit more orderly.

I'd maybe try "three minutes out " (= away from the keyboard) for anyone who can't or won't get the message. You can be really sorry on their behalf "Oh ! bad luck - you forgot! 3 minutes out!" With luck you'll get the others on your "side" and then no-one will want to be the xxxx who forgets. Or you might try a system of stickers on a chart which have to be earned.
Get your plan of action thought out before next time and let them know - nicely - who's in charge.

It's not unfair - after all it's unfair on A and B if C hogs the limelight.

The Chopsticks thing - could you have five minutes at the end when they can play anything they like for you - say 1 or 2 minutes each?

Hope some of this helps. A new group is often a bit chaotic at first, but a few weeks later they are often quite a bit more settled. Let us know how it goes!

Maggie

Thanks Maggie - those are really good ideas for this group. I was just so overwhelmed by them I couldn't think straight!

Good reply Maggie. Being sorry on their behalf works so well.....you don't get to be the baddy.

And don't forget, if they're on keyboards, you control the on/off switch (via the plug if necessary). Try to set the rules quickly before it becomes too much of a habit and stick with them. Believe it or not, kids appreciate this.

Allocating time at the end of the lesson for their chopsticks etc is another good suggestion.

Sounds like you're in for a heap of fun

QUOTE (Farley_Teacher @ Sep 9 2004, 06:23 PM)

I hardly got a word in edge-ways and I needed a lie-down in a darkened room afterwards.

LOL - I know the feeling! Yesterday I had two groups of Year 3 recorder beginners - their first lesson - and they were pretty 'hyper' at the start. I sometimes feel a bit like a lion-tamer in those situations!
Looks like there are a few promising ones in the bunch - I'm awaiting next week's lesson with interest, to see which ones have practised as instructed!
But I must admit that at the end of the two sessions I was thinking longingly of the drinks cupboard at home - but I couldn't have one, because I had my evening's worth of private pupils after that!

And I start back at school with my group lessons next week just when OFSTED arrives. I do 14 groups - Yrs 3 - 6.

So can you imagine 4 groups of 7 year 3 beginners, very first lesson and possibly an inspector to watch the fun!! Think this my be an suitable time for a nervous breakdown. What do you reckon?

Dear Farley Teacher, I think Music teacher magazine has just brought out a supplement about group teaching which might be worth a look. Give them a call they are usually very helpful.
First lessons are the hardest. You don't know the kids, the standards etc etc. You have now found out a lot of information (admittedly in a horrible way). Others can give you advise about how to handle groups better than me but in a way you had to experience the first, most difficult day. Don't despair it can only get better.
My one bit of advise would be - don't let them sit facing the keyboard until you have finished explaining exactly what you want them to do. Lay down any rules. eg no playing when you are talking, no playing until you say so... If they are very eager to show you their skills give them a little time to do this at the start (or end ) of the lesson if you think there is time.