The Teacher's Studio Is Where?... That's All The Way Across Town!

Convenience is good... with all the other things we have to do in a day, why not look for the closest teacher available. That's fine if the teacher is the right one for the student. DON'T COMPROMISE JUST FOR CONVENIENCE- you will regret it, I promise.

The Right Teacher... eeny, meeny, mynee, moe?

Remember, how diligent you are in the selection process will determine just how successful this adventure will be.
Get a recommendation for 2 or 3 names. Call them and have a general chat on the phone. If you like their attitude, book a lesson.

See how it goes. Stay for the lesson. If the relationship works, book a schedule. If it doesn't, try another teacher.
Understand that this relationship will make or break your child's interest and enthusiasm.

As for myself,

I am very insistent on the relationship to be a good fit. I will recommend another teacher if I feel it is not a fit.
I also insist on the parent staying for the first few lessons to get a feel for how I do things.

Private Lessons Help Your Golf Game, Don't They?

Band directors may have to divide their attentions among 30, 60 or more students.

If you really want to support your child's effort in learning their instrument, you will absolutely cut down on the frustration quotient by seeking out an appropriate teacher for private lessons.

Ohhh.... The Wells Fargo Trains A'Comin...

Mom, can I be in band at school? I wanna play trumpet or drums- no, clarinet... no. I mean... what's easy?
If you, as a parent don't want A to turn into B, help your child arrive at a decision that makes sense. If he/she is small in stature, encourage an instrument that is physically compatible; but, let the sound it makes be the main influence. Go to the library and borrow CDs that the band director may recommend to help the student identify the various instruments available.

Let them determine by sound just which one appeals to them.