I had an email recently from a PR firm about an online, piano-learning app which is apparently “driven by Artificial Intelligence” (it didn’t specify how). It described the “gamification” approach of the app – and said it saves learners vault-loads of cash compared with the “considerable expense” of a teacher. Sigh.
It reminded me how some instrumental teachers are terrified by the prospect of apps or online courses damaging their earning potential. Many such apps and courses now exist. Many are free or cheap.
Thing is, numerous “learn to play piano” (or guitar, or other instrument) books have been published over the past decades. Those haven’t stopped teachers making an income.
You know already: if you tailor your lessons to individual students’ musical goals and learning styles you do something a book, online course or app can’t. You’re on a musical journey with multiple routes, and you’re an expert navigator.
And it’s not an “either-or” – you can (you probably already do) harness new apps and use them to complement your teaching, if and when it’s appropriate. And I’d be willing to bet you’ve taken on at least one student in your time who started off via book, online course or app but needs the expertise, guidance and bespoke, responsive approach only a human can give.
There are plenty of apps which music teachers do find particularly useful. Is there anything you use? Do let us know – we’ll share recommendations.
What next?
- Check out our free 29 tips for a thriving music teaching business. We promise that our 29 ideas will give you things you can do immediately to boost your music teaching business. They’ll also make you smile. Request our series of tips for music teachers today.