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To teach or not to teach.
Friday, January 2, 2009
That's the big question. When I left the world of retail and decided to devote all of time to music, almost everyone ask me if I planned to do any teaching. And my response was the same; that I was not born or blessed with patience. Yeah, I know patience is a factor, I really admire people who do it and do it well. But it's more than that.
I think really good teachers do it out of a heart felt desire to educate. It's not (or shouldn't be) about the money. But unfortunately there are some folks out there that do it just for that reason. I guess I shouldn't discredit them, especially if they are good teachers. I just think it should be more than that.
I even had some folks suggest using a couple students as their own personal "roadie." Now, as much as I get tired of schlepping gear around, especially the older I get, it still seems unfair. But I have talked to a couple of these "roadies" and they really don't seem to mind it. They've told me that they've learn as much, if not more, about the logistics of performing more than they could have in a room with their teacher. Okay.
The other positive reason I've heard for teaching is that it makes you, the teacher, a better musician. Each time you de-construct something for your student, you are constantly re-examining how you approach the music.
I guess the main reason why I don't teach is my own lack of self confidence. This is not the case for me when I'm either performing on stage or at a recording session. But I don't know how I do the things I do. To me, it all just happens. I have no idea how to past this on to anyone else. I don't think the little bit of formal training I've had qualifies me to be a teacher. Some people tell me my experience is enough, but I can't accept that. Anyhow, at some point, maybe I'll get over it. The personal roadie thing sounds very tempting!
Posted by Ed T Butler at 11:19 AM
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