How to choose a drums teacher
Here are some pointers to choosing the drums teacher that's right for you or your offspring:
1. Choose one that isn't too far away. Chances are there is a good one in your town. If you choose an expensive guy from the big city, miles away, you are going to get tired of travelling; especially on wet Wednesdays after work. Try and find a good guy nearby.
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2. Give him a ring and ask some questions. Does he sound sober, interested, nice? Does he seem at all mental? Can he provide the lessons your young one wants, at the right price?
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3. Ask him if he can produce a dbs Certificate. Any reputable teacher should have one. It is evidence that he has no criminal convictions or cautions on his record. My certificate looks like this. It has been painted out a bit for my privacy.
I wouldn't let anyone teach my kids without one of these.
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4. Ask him what other qualifications he has. Just because he was a good performer doesn't prove he will be a good teacher and visa versa. The two disciplines are very different. A background in performing and a teaching qualification are both reasonable requirements of a good teacher.
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5. If his qualifications look good, ask him to play for you. Does he seem like he has plenty to offer? Does he inspire you or your child? Kids are a tough audience. If they don't like you, they will say so.
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6. Tell him exactly what you are looking for and make sure he can provide it.
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7. Can the pupil visit the teacher, or does the teacher come to you?
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8. Ask about equipment. What does the pupil need? Are sticks and a practice pad enough? Do not ever buy a kit until you are sure, the pupil is in it for the long haul. Children change their minds rapidly. The pupil should be able to play on the teacher's kit and a practice pad at first.
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9. Ask if the pupil can have a trial lesson. Teachers often provide one free or cheap.
10. If the trial goes well, settle the deal for lessons. Many teachers like to book you into several lessons at once to ensure your commitment. Check what the procedures are for cancellations or lateness. This can cause disputes if both parties are not clear on what happens.
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11. Check regularly how the lessons are progressing. Some children need to take it slower than others. Your child might do better on fewer lessons per month, to take time to practice and learn at his own pace.
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12. Talk to the teacher often. Is the pupil settled and progressing? Is drumming becoming a part of the pupil's life? If not, it's not a problem; life is a marathon not a sprint.
If your child takes to the drums in a big way and it becomes an integral part of his life, welcome to our world!
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