354: Can You Teach Advanced Students? Suzanne Andrews Shares Her Story

The TopCast: The Official Music Teachers' Podcast

Have you ever found yourself at a crossroads, questioning whether you can continue guiding your students as they reach the advanced stages of their musical journey? The thought of passing them on to another teacher can be daunting, especially after years of building a strong bond with both students and their families. In this insightful interview, we're here to challenge those doubts and inspire you to reconsider. Our guest today, Suzanne Andrews, knows this feeling all too well and will share her journey, offering valuable insights and practical tips for nurturing advanced students. So if you've ever pondered, "Can I do this?" when confronted with advanced repertoire, this episode is your guide to rethinking, reevaluating, and revitalizing your role as a music teacher.

• Suzanne provided some insights into her music studio.
• The distinction between AMusA and LMusA.
• Her email to Tim about preparing a teenage student for an AMusA examination in piano.
• Suzanne's approach to getting ready to work with Maddie and preparing her for the AMusA examination.
• Her thoughts on imposter syndrome.
• Biggest tips for other teachers taking on advanced students.
• How useful is having a session with an examiner.
• The nature of the general knowledge component of the exam and her methods in aiding Maddie's preparation.
• Suzanne gave an update on Maddie who was awarded her Amusa.
• The importance of mentorship and community for Suzanne.

Links Mentioned

• AMusA and Diploma General Knowledge Study Guide

Today’s Guest

Suzanne Andrews has been a music educator, performer and accompanist since her teenage years. Whilst her university degree is in classical piano she has much experience teaching and performing a diverse range of musical styles. Her passions include creating performance spaces that foster a sense of safety and self expression, the role of embodiment in music making, and leading all manner of singalongs, both in and out of the teaching room. She teaches piano at a couple of secondary schools in Melbourne, supplemented by a small private studio.

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