I’ve been trying to psych myself up for the new year. Trying to think of helpful topics to share after our two week break. I had the beginning of some ideas (new year’s resolutions and how they apply to piano practice, encouragement for parents getting back into a routine, etc) but I didn’t get very far with them. I will see about developing these topics for a future episode but I accidentally got the inspiration for this week’s topic when I looked at one of the reviews on my iTunes account.

Listen to the full episode here:

http://traffic.libsyn.com/pianoparentpodcast/PPP125_A_Negative_Review_and_the_Bes.mp3

“I’ve been teaching 15 years and have seen a lot….”

I love that, even with 15 years experience, you are still actively learning and growing with your students.I, honestly and truly would love to talk with you and share some of your insight with the other listeners to this podcast.

“...that said, I learn a ton from this podcast!…”

This is a great compliment (not the best compliment I could hope for as mentioned in the title, I’ll get to that in a bit). To hear that an experienced teacher finds value in what I share is very reassuring.On a personal level, I often wonder if this is worthwhile. Am I just wasting my time and effort? Am I spinning my wheels? Am I neglecting my own students?I’ve heard more than one teacher say something like, “I know how to teach, I don’t need to attend another conference.”  What a shame that is for their students.I am very glad you are not like that.I think that expression is true, “The more we know, the more we realize we do not know.”

“...Shelley and the teachers she interviews are so professional and creative! …”

This is also a great compliment (but still not the best one….hang on, it’s coming!)To all the teachers and parents who have ever been on the show, this compliment is yours! Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience with me and our listeners. I learn so much through our conversations and I am glad to know that your interviews are helpful to others. (Listen to Beth Hughes’ interview, Episode 042)