Quitting Lessons

I have seen some of the most amazing students come and go. Some have stayed for over a decade and others ended up quitting guitar lessons after less than a month.  If the student has been with a teacher for a number of years and has built an amazing relationship, leaving can really be tough. Here are a few thoughts that may help ease the transition.

When Should I Tell the Teacher I am Quitting Lessons?

The beginning of the lesson can sometimes be the best time to mention it. This way, the student does not focus on the dreaded conversation during the lesson. Sometimes students get too nervous to say anything and won’t if they wait until the end of the lesson.

Most teachers prefer finding out at the beginning of the lessons. This way if there is anything that can get worked out, like a schedule conflict or money issues, sometimes the instructor can help. If the parent is up for it, a phone call can be a nice touch for a teacher they like.

 A Good Teacher Understands

Most music teachers know there are an endless number of reasons a student may need to stop lessons. Sometimes students are moving, have school conflicts, sports conflicts, or maybe they simply lose interest.

A lot of times the instructor will have an idea that the student is leaving as the day approaches. If the student is moving, then the instructor has probably heard about it at some point. The same is true with sports or other conflicts. If there is a complete lack of enthusiasm, the teacher is probably already prepared for the inevitable. Teaching someone whose heart is not in it is actually a real challenge. Despite best efforts to inspire the student.

Giving Notice Before Quitting Lessons is Invaluable

For an instructor that is very busy, filling the spot isn’t usually a problem. Even so, if you are going to leave, the best gift you can give a teacher is notice. This will give your instructor time to let the lesson coordinator know he/she will have a spot opening up. The prospective student will also be very happy to know there will be a slot available. Giving them a card is a wonderful way to leave a keepsake and ease the moment.

Check Back In

 Quitting guitar lessons definitely does not mean the end. There is nothing better than to walk out and see a former student excited to say hi. There have been several students who have come back after college and asked to get a cup of coffee and catch up. What an amazing feeling!

Finally…

There is nothing more rewarding than to watch a student grow both musically and as a person. Don’t stress if you have to leave. For most teachers, the door is always open anytime you would like to come back.

Taking Lessons

If you are interested in guitar, ukulele, or bass lessons, feel free to contact me. I teach in both Greeley and Fort Collins, Colorado as well as online.