Raising the Bar: A Proud Moment for My 13-Year-Old Student

Could we make one weekly lesson worth two lessons’ progress? Wouldn’t that be just amazing?!

As a teacher, there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing your students shine—and that’s exactly what happened recently during an online workshop. My 13-year-old student took center stage in a masterclass with a prominent teacher, and let me tell you, he exceeded all expectations.

From the moment he started playing, you could sense something special. His tone was confident, his musicality was captivating, and his focus was razor-sharp. The masterclass teacher, known for their discerning eye and high standards, was clearly impressed.

The feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Not only did the teacher praise my student’s performance, but they also assumed he was taking two lessons a week to achieve such a high level of playing! That comment alone speaks volumes about his dedication and hard work—and perhaps just a little about how we’ve structured his practice and lessons!

But it got me thinking: Could we make one weekly lesson worth two lessons’ progress? Wouldn’t that be just amazing?! What if we could help students maximize their learning potential with strategies that double their growth while keeping their schedules manageable?

This moment wasn’t just a win for my student but also a reminder of the importance of setting high standards, staying consistent, and fostering a love for the instrument. I’m incredibly proud of his growth and thrilled to see where this journey takes him next.

Whether it’s practicing for a workshop, tackling a challenging piece, or simply refining technique, moments like these remind us that music truly is a journey worth pursuing. Here’s to more milestones ahead!

What’s been your proudest teaching or learning moment lately? I’d love to hear!