Monday, November 02, 2015

The 5 types of piano teachers you'll meet in Malaysia

I never realised it until I was an adult.
But having a musical education makes you a better rounded person.
At least a classical one. Sorry, you YouTubers and jammers.
So now it comes to my kids' turn to have a music education and I would never deny them any opportunity to learn something new.
Scouted for 2 weeks to buy a piano. Became an expert in the process and learned tons about the inner workings of a good piano.
All for Estelle Sophie Ong. Luckily her BFF is also learning piano so she has interest in it too.
Next step: Looking for piano teachers.
Interviewed 5 in all (oh yes, the picky helicopter parent) and decided on one finally.
Type number:

1. The Aloof: You call her number and she says she wants to come over to see your child. Fine, you text her your address and you don't hear from her the next 7 days. When you call her back, she has the gall to ask "Who is this?".
Teaching piano business must be GOOD.

2. The Auntie: No age discrimination here. But when you talk like you've been teaching since the 19th century, then I really have to doubt if my daughter can learn any contemporary musical references from you.
Keep it current lah, Auntie. Then people can relate to you, ya know.

3. The Hater: "Is your daughter naughty? I don't do naughty kids" AHHH? You teach kids piano right? If you cannot understand and tolerate kids then er...Miss, I think you may be in the wrong line. OUT!

4. The Human Calculator: How far is your house? ok, mileage will cost you additional RM40 per month. Huh? But your house is 5 km away? Yes, but it will inconvenience me. Hello teacher? I think you also better change your business model.

5. The Right One: I hope so.
From the start, she was enthusiastic. Setting realistic expectations (very important for this kiasu dad). Being detailed about books etc. Also saying it's' ok if we change our minds as long as we tell her 2 days beforehand.

Now...to see if Estelle Sophie Ong can sit still for an hour every Saturday and tinkle on those ivories....







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