The Relationship Conversation for Parents

Simply Music Founder and Executive Director Neil Moore has devoted decades to the possibility of music as a lifelong companion. He has spoken to countless parents who share this vision but are still echoing outdated mindsets that don’t encourage that wonderful relationship with musical self-expression. In this far-reaching conversation, the first in an ongoing series, he outlines a whole different viewpoint that could redesign the musical future for parents and students alike.

We recommend you take the time to listen to Neil’s passionate argument for a new relationship with music. You will also find a transcript of his conversation below.

In this chat Neil discusses:

the ‘child-centric’ culture of music lessons that we have inherited
getting clear about the roles and responsibilities of child, parent and teacher
the two domains – Method and Relationship
Simply Music’s four declared goals
the overriding goal – to maximize the likelihood of students acquiring and retaining music as a lifelong companion
the six components of long-term relationships
navigating through peaks, plateaus and valleys
what your child really learns when they quit
how the Relationship conversation can impact life even beyond music lessons
the Method Coach and the Life Coach

THE RELATIONSHIP CONVERSATION FOR PARENTS – TRANSCRIPT (PDF)

Trainee	A 'Trainee' Simply Music Teacher is the first level of teacher status. Trainees have begun their journey into the Simply Music Teacher Training Program however, they have yet to finalize their training and elevate to Licensed status.
Licensed Teacher	A 'Licensed' Simply Music Teacher is the second level of teacher status. Licensed Simply Music Teachers have fulfilled the requirements for completing their Initial Teacher Training Program. Inquire with them to find out when and if they are ready to teach.
Certified Teacher	A 'Certified' Simply Music Teacher is the third level of teacher status. Certified Simply Music Teachers have successfully completed the Simply Music Certification process as well as other requirements needed to become Certified. This includes having taught Foundation Levels 1, 2, and 3 as well as all applicable Special Programs (Composition & Improvisation, Arrangements, and Accompaniment 1). Certified Teachers present the Simply Music Programs exclusively to their beginning students, and they have shown that they follow our carefully-designed curriculum authentically.
Advanced Teacher	An 'Advanced' Simply Music Teacher is the fourth level of teacher status. Advanced status is only achieved after being a Certified Teacher for at least 4 years and teaching students through Foundation Level 9 plus all associated Special Programs (Composition & Improvisation, Arrangements, the Accompaniment Programs, the Reading Programs, Blues & Improvisation, and Jazz Clues). An Advanced Simply Music Teacher has demonstrated that they are an educator with a high degree of experience. Advanced Teachers present the Simply Music Programs exclusively to their beginning students, and they have shown that they follow our carefully-designed curriculum authentically.
Master Teacher	'Master' Simply Music Teacher is an honorary position and the highest status level that can be achieved. It is offered by Simply Music's founder, Neil Moore, to members of the organization who have demonstrated, over an extended period of time, that they are teachers who possess exemplary skills and qualities. They are mentors and a model to their fellow Simply Music Teachers and are considered leaders in our teaching community.

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