Rock School Proprietor Podcast

114: Why Great Musicians Aren't Always Great Instructors

Rock School Proprietor Podcast

Show Notes

In this episode John Kozicki (Michigan Rock School and RockSchoolProprietor.com) and Mandy York (Music Time of Milford) unpack the "expert blind spot": why deep musical mastery can make it hard to understand beginner struggles. They explain how the skills of playing and teaching a musical instrument differ, share hiring and evaluation tips, and outline practical traits to look for in music instructors — from breaking tasks into steps and sequencing to varied communication, curiosity, patience and a growth mindset.In this episode:

The difference between being a good musician and a good music teacher, and why there can often be a disconnect between the two. How the curse of knowledge and expert blind spot can make a great musician struggle to connect with and teach students effectively. How to separate teaching skills from performing skills when evaluating prospective music instructors for your lesson studio. How the traits that make someone a great music instructor can be learned and taught.

The good news: these teaching qualities are learnable. Whether you’re developing your own teaching skills or hiring for your studio, this episode gives actionable guidance to help great musicians become great teachers.

-------------------------------------- Your ratings and reviews on Apple Podcast and Spotify are always appreciated! Join our private Facebook group, "The Modern Music School," a community for like-minded professionals to connect and share insights. Looking for a simple and effective guitar curriculum that includes FREE instructor training and support? Consider John's book, Complete Guitar Strumming.

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