Teaching Method

Not every music studio is the same, and not every studio focuses on the same goals.  We know---as we have met a lot of different music teachers, witnessed different teaching styles and personalities, and different expectations.  We don't believe that there is only one way to teach.  

At Murray Music Conservatory, we focus on each student as an individual.  While we have solid method books or technique that we insist on teaching, we gear each student's instruction to what might help them learn best, whether it be singing along with their music, creating arrangements they have requested, or giving them a chance to learn music that will go along with a sibling or parent also learning music.  

Our teacher's number one focus is to allow each student to enjoy music.  We try as hard as possible to encourage our students and get to the "fun stuff" as soon as possible no matter how much of a beginner they are.  When early beginning students realize they can play an actual "real song" on guitar or piano or violin, or that they can sing along and play one of their favorites on ukulele after only learning 2 chords, it is awesome!  We are constantly seeking out ways to get the students excited about their next lesson as to what new things they may get to learn.

We also like to challenge our students.  Some may have particular interests or music styles they like, but often we will throw out new styles of music so they can experience something that they may not have been aware of and learn that they like it.  

It is true, not every student is going to enjoy music lessons.  Not every student is meant for the piano or one particular instrument.  We have the amazing ability to witness students who started on one instrument try out something else and learn to love it.  Or, we have some students who choose to learn multiple instruments.  And for those students who just plain hate taking music lessons, but their parents want to keep testing the waters---well, we try as hard as we can with songs and music that we hope might strike a chord so to speak, and if it doesn't work out, we are kind and considerate.  

At Murray Music Conservatory we are not out to create the perfect musician. We are not here to yell at students or make anyone feel bad for not practicing or getting things right.  We are forgiving and understand lives are busy and times are challenging.  We are very low stress and want everyone to be able to enjoy music even if they can only fit it in on part time basis.  We totally respect other music teachers and studios that hold higher standards and require a lot more work, but here at MMC we want to keep things light.