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An update on a young and quite precocious student (of eastern origin) I took on in August. Student was playing at what I could call intermediate standard physically, but couldn't read music. Well, I did my best and at least now she knows the difference between middle C and the D above it.

The dad told me today this would be the last lesson. It is really hard to understand him but I think they have a teacher planned who will teach by the Hong Kong method, which suits them better. He made sure to tell me he really appreciated her theory has come a long way due to my efforts.

I am sad to see her go, but not at all surprised. It's been quite an experience. I was glad to pick the brains of more experienced teachers here. I do hope she remembers some of what I taught her.

It's always a bit sad when a student decides to leave, especially when you're making good progress with them. I suspect the Hong Kong method is the 19th century high fingers, calm hand, which is totally useless for Romantic and contemporary literature. Not too long ago, I had a transfer student who was visiting from Hong Kong for a year. Not terribly impressed with the foundation training this student received.

Anyway, you should feel good about what and how you helped this student.

Well, good riddance! Your life will be better without such added stress.

Stressful parents produce stressed-out children.

... or rebellious ones.

I would have liked to keep on teaching her, and will miss the income. (Till I get another few students.) For all the stresses, she was a serious student.

And I was getting somewhere with her.

I can't deny, her Hong Kong teacher got her playing very well.

No notice?

None. In fairness, I don't have a contract, so it's not against the law. They used all the lessons they paid for.

Not saying against the law, but sorry you lost the income. Get a policy, IMHO.

I have a policy. In time I will protect myself better, but just now I'm happy as it is. I would have lost her anyway, perhaps with a bit more cash.