Hello,

I was wondering if any of you have ever been phoned by a parent saying their daughter is unable to come to lesson (due to being unwell) and would it be possible for the mother to have a lesson instead? What would you think about this? Is it an absolute cheek and you'd be very offended, or is it up to them seeing as they're paying and have given you a bit of warning ?

(The mother is musical and had always wanted lessons as a child but came from a poor family so was never able.)

(The instrument is voice, just incase that has a bearing on the answer.)

I haven't been in that situation myself, but I'd be up for it - it would certainly be interesting, and who knows, you might end up getting her as a pupil too! Since she has asked, the inclination must be there.....

Yes, I've done this and I thought it was fabulous that they asked.

I teach violin, don't think it matters what the instrument is.

It's so good for parents to have an understanding of how it is to 'learn how to learn', plus I think music making is fine therapy.

I've done it with the piano several times. It's great fun - go for it!

I'd go for it, too. Maybe bear in mind that it may be a one-off or only happen very occasionally so think of some fun but productive activities to to. It will also help you get to know the mother better which may help in your teaching of the daughter.

You may find the mother asks for regular lessons, although I'm sure you won't push for that!

I'm currently teaching a mother who's daughter has gone to university (not doing music) and wanted to take over the slot, and the instrument. I saw the daughter the other day as she's home for the holidays, she says she's been nagging her mum to practice!!!

I agree with all the other posts, go for it! I teach a mother and daughter, the daughter being 6 years old. Because her mother is learning too, they make practicing a joint thing, and they have both come on in leaps and bounds. It's great to see! It will be so enjoyable for you so yes, I'd do it.

Good Luck!

I also do this - great fun! I guess it depends on the Mum, though.
As I get paid weekly, if daughter is sick, and I normally don't charge, it means I don't lose out.
I also have a family of four - two boy trebles, Dad, and occasionally Mum, who share an hour's lesson. Two of them will have 30 minutes each. Sometimes it's a surprise who turns up, though mostly it's the two boys. It works well if one is sick, though.

Agree with everyone else I've done this too and it's worked out fine.

It's not a cheek at all - it's a way of making sure they get their moneysworth if they've paid in advance, or you still get paid if they pay on the day. Nobody loses (except the sick child) and it could be a fun, interesting experience for both of you.

That sounds like a great idea! It gives mum a chance to see what the child experiences each week as well.

I currently teach a father and daughter, both from scratch. The only thing is, daughter (7) is picking things up far more quickly than dad (40). I've kept their material different so it doesn't show too much, but its funny how you can't just assume the adult will be the one to steam ahead!

Another adult student brings her 4 year old daughter to watch the lesson too. She's learning for fun and to inspire her children, and at the end of the lesson I let daughter play a few tunes. In a year or two, she'll prbably start coming herself For now she sits very well behaved on the sofa and listens to mum.

Thanks all for your positive feedback. My daughter's recovered now so I'll not be asking this week

So you were the mother in question? Hope you enjoyed the lesson

I didn't realise you were the mum either! That explains why you wondered if we'd all think it was a cheek.. l

Glad your daughter's better but shame it didn't happen - why not ask your daughter if she'd mind you taking her lesson on a one-off basis?

my mum does this for me once a moth when i have senior section at the same time as my piano lesson. she really enjoys it...

Once a moth?!? The mind positively boggles...

oops - my bad...

I was just thinking how that was a really good way to get honest answers to a question, knowing that you weren't just being humoured! Must remember that!

Just for the record - I'd do it too if I was the teacher. I did it for about a month once when the child had too many other things on, and the mum ended up with a Pre-Grade One exam - and was really proud of her certificate. I'd check out what the mum wanted from the lessons though - so from your point of view I'd tell the teacher exactly what you want to achieve - whether it's a trial run to see if you might fancy your own lessons, or whatever. It would help the teacher prepare for you coming. When I taught the above-mentioned mum for a while I was under the impression she just wanted to be able to help her daughter at first! I might have used a different course for an older learner if I'd known!