>....snip... Yes, you can learn a lot on your own. But a teacher will help
> you do it faster without all the chaff. A teacher will be able
> to guide you through the exciting discoveries of the harp,
> challenging you at just the right moment.
>
> Lastly, taking lessons is a two-way street. The student should
> give input about what is working, what they are frustrated about,
> what direction they want to take. As a teacher, I want my students
> to be both frustrated and challenged and successful and curious; I
> will never know if they just sit there saying,"Yes, Ma'm." ....snip...
I agree. Fortunately my teacher, who probably doesn't give a hoot about my
direction of music - celtic - has been always interested in what I have to
say, even if she might have heard it 9,999,999 times before. That makes me
want to learn more. And, she has been gracious about my direction.
When I first started taking lessons, I almost felt that she expected me to
be a palor harper. When I told her I wanted to play celtic music, to
compete, her attitude changed. She knew I had a direction and has helped me
with my progress in that direction. Having a goal and being able to
articulate that goal is as valuable as having a harp.
The biggest help I ever got was after competition at Alexandria. Sue and
Darcy both came over and spent time with me, going over my pieces and
helping me understand what I was trying to accomplish. "It just don't get no
better'n that!" The workshops that are given at the various games, the
harper circles, all are valuable to give you the broad view. The lessons
direct your attention to allowing you to make your instrument sound how you
feel. That's music - allowing the listener inside your feelings.
Rita