Beginner Books are Not Books for Beginners!

A common question from a begninner student in the first lesson is this:

'What book should i buy for next week?'

The gut feeling of most teachers is to recommend the book they were taught with. There is a lot of merit in this approach as it gives the teacher a familiar basis for tuition. However, is it the best way to lay down the fundamentals of the instrument? I would argue not.

The first few lessons on an instrument are - in my opinion - the most vital ones in a musician's lifetime. If good basic principles are not established during this time years can be spent overcoming problems in the future. It only makes sense therefore that these formative lessons should be used incredibly carefully. There is no point in a student being able to say 'I have got to stage five in my book, aren't i good!' if they are holding the instrument in the incorrect way! Sounds obvious, but this scenario happens time and time again.

Of course I agree that beginner books are an integral part of a new instrumentalist's education. I just feel that it is dangerous to solely use them when learning an instrument. With a little creativity and imagination lots can be learned without the need for written material. So teachers, challenge yourself when next faced with a new student. You'll be surprised at what can be achieved!