Why do Pupils Progress with Certain Tutors?

In my opinion, there is a very special connection between a teacher and a pupil. It is one of trust, respect and determination, all of which are needed from both parties to gain the most from learning. The most important thing a teacher can do is appear confident to the pupil (and in many circumstances, their parents), so that the pupil can be convinced that they have much learn from the teacher. This step is crucial, because in realising that they can be taught much from this person, the respect between the pupil and the teacher grows.

My second teacher was perhaps the greatest influence on my musical life to date. He showed my that I could do what I wanted if I set my mind to it, that I could reach my aims and goals if I tried my hardest. He never let me get away with anything. And I still respect him for that. In pulling up my bad habits, or correcting me on every mistake I made has made me into the musician and flute player I am today. When I play beside him in our symphony orchestra back home, I feel truly honoured to be considered as his equal. When I was learning with him, we had a master-apprentice relationship. But since I have left him as a teacher and moved to London for my degree, I have discovered that he has become my friend and advisor. I still learn from him due to our continued contact, whether it is me asking for advice on repertoire, or him emailing me to ask if I have sussed out the new symphony we have to play, and that there are more effective ways to play trickier passages so he tells me to practise them like that. I believe that I wouldn't have achieved what I have so far without his advice and support, and that if he had been a different person who approached my lessons with a different attitude, my life, ambitions and opportunities would not be what they are now.