The Perfect Fit: Finding the Teacher That Resonates with You

Choosing a music teacher, especially a long-term one, is less like selecting a service and more like forming a partnership.

Choosing a music teacher, especially a long-term one, is less like selecting a service and more like forming a partnership. Progress, motivation, and musical fulfillment don’t come solely from what is taught, but how, why, and by whom. Two teachers may agree on every technical and musical principle, yet feel completely different to study with.

January is a natural time to reflect, reset, and make intentional choices. If you or your child are considering lessons, here are a few often-overlooked factors that can make all the difference.

“ Progress, motivation, and musical fulfillment don’t come solely from what is taught, but how, why, and by whom.”

Teaching Style & Personality: How Learning Is Delivered

Technique and musical values matter, but personality shapes how those ideas land.

Some teachers are highly verbal and analytical. Others demonstrate more than they explain. Some thrive on structure and consistency, while others allow lessons to unfold organically. None of these approaches are inherently better, but they will resonate differently depending on the student.

Ask yourself:

Do you (or your child) respond better to encouragement or direct feedback?

Is humor motivating or distracting?

Do you prefer clear step-by-step goals or broader musical exploration?

A strong teacher-student match often comes down to communication style. When information is delivered in a way that feels natural to receive, learning accelerates and confidence grows. Clear, compatible communication helps students understand not just what to do, but why, reducing frustration and unnecessary repetition. This creates a learning environment where progress feels sustainable and students are more likely to remain motivated and curious over the long term.

Studio Size & Opportunities: Environment Shapes Experience

Studios vary widely in size and structure, and that environment influences more than just scheduling.

Larger studios may offer:

Regular group classes or studio recitals

Chamber music or ensemble opportunities

A built-in peer community

Smaller studios often provide:

Highly individualized attention

Flexible pacing

Lessons tailored closely to a student’s life stage and goals

Neither model is superior. It's about what supports you best right now. Some students thrive on frequent performance opportunities and peer energy; others flourish with focused, private mentorship. Also to consider besides size is the average age range. Sometimes a teacher can be great with younger students and sometimes they work well with all ages. 

Private Studios vs. Music Schools: Longevity & Continuity

Music schools can be a wonderful entry point, especially if you are new to an area. There will be several violin teachers in one school that you could study with. However, teachers in private studios can often offer greater continuity.

Private studio teachers typically:

Set their own curriculum and policies

Remain in one location for many years

Build long-term relationships with students and families

This staying power matters. Musical growth is cumulative, and consistency in guidance allows a teacher to truly understand a student’s learning patterns, strengths, and challenges over time.

Music School teachers typically:

Are free to leave after a school year

Are operating within a larger system that will have to align with the school's principles and prestige

Often have less of a one-on-one relationship with the families of the student 

There are many great teachers that teach in well-established music schools for school age children and adults, and many students can thrive in this setting. If your child is easily adaptable and you like the environment of a school setting, this can work too. 

" A strong teacher-student match often comes down to communication style. When information is delivered in a way that feels natural to receive, learning accelerates and confidence grows."

Teacher Expectations: Are You a Mutual Fit?

Just as students choose teachers, teachers also design their studios with specific students in mind. While all good teachers will have standards regarding practice, scheduling, and consistency, there is still more to consider.

Some studios focus on:

Pre-professional training

Orchestra or audition preparation

Recreational or lifelong music-making

Flexible schedules for busy families

A good match happens when goals align.

Consider:

What are your musical priorities right now?

How much practice time is realistic?

Are you seeking accountability, exploration, or both?

When a student’s goals align with a teacher’s philosophy and studio setup, lessons feel purposeful rather than pressured.

"Oftentimes, what we get out of learning an instrument is never solely just about the mechanics or gorgeous melodies. "

Final Thoughts: Fit Over Prestige

The “best” teacher is not the one with the longest résumé or the most accolades, it’s the one whose approach resonates with you.

When the fit is right, lessons become something to look forward to. Progress feels steady. Challenges feel manageable. Music becomes a meaningful part of life, not just another obligation.

And if you are lucky, the partnership between a teacher and student can become something that makes a significant difference in all areas of your learning and development as a person. Oftentimes, what we get out of learning an instrument is never solely just about the mechanics or gorgeous melodies. 

If you’re exploring lessons this year, give yourself permission to prioritize connection, clarity, and compatibility. The right fit can make all the difference.

Thank you so much for reading.  Please check out my other blog posts below and you can find out more about me at www.shelleyjmathews.com