Hi Micael, and welcome...

I'll start with your last question first: "how many weeks/months does it span?"

FOREVER! Honestly, I think most teachers don't think of a beginner's "program" that ends, and then the student is no longer a beginner. Learning to play the piano does not have a finite end. You start out at the very beginning, and then you just keep going and going for as long as you want to. One is never finished.

My typical outline is to use the piano method book I wrote and published myself. Other teachers use other methods that they love and are able to teach with enthusiasm. All methods progress systematically through all the basic reading and playing concepts one by one. In my experience, it takes several years to get to a point with a student at which they would no longer be considered a beginner.

Hope that helps you somewhat!

that helped a lot. many thanks for answering my question.My next question is "Are teachers expected to be REALLY REALLY REALLY BLOODY PATIENT with their students?". I mean, are there instances that a teacher might quit on a student if he's TOO hard to teach?

Ha ha ha... Yes, well, I think most of us enjoy the challenge of a student who has particular difficulties. Also, *good* teachers who really feel that teaching is their vocation are, by nature, patient. Otherwise we wouldn't be in the business. I always feel calm and patient with my students no matter their issues.

I have never quit on a student. What I have done is if there is a student who is clearly not trying, I would suggest they reevaluate their commitment to lessons. Those people quit soon after. As long is someone is trying their best, I will stick with them no matter what!

Hi micael,

Are you thinking you may be "too hard to teach"? What do you mean by being hard to teach? I think if you are respectful toward your teacher, it will go a long way toward building a good working relationship with your teacher. No need to judge yourself as being a slow learner, if that's what you were thinking.

Teachers "quit on students" when they suck effort and energy from the teacher without a balance of gain. Teachers get paid, of course, but most teachers also need some sort of positive feedback - some idea that they are producing something beyond "moving piles of dirt back and forth."

Some things the student can give: a positive attitude (no whining!) Consistent practice (a little show of effort goes a long way). Being reliable (showing up on time with your materials. Not cancelling or skipping lessons, or forgetting books.)

You will notice that "rapid progress" is not on the list. Teaching a talented, capable student is certainly rewarding, but I would rather teach a committed, polite, earnest student than a surly genius any day.

EXACTLY! That's what I meant.

What a great description! This description even helps me to understand my own motivation. You're right...I do need some sort of positive feedback. I love the part about wanting to produce something beyond "moving piles of dirt back and forth".