There always comes a point when we are learning new concepts and techniques that the initial burst of improvement and understanding levels off, and we hit this phase that I call a "plateau" - improvements slows down dramatically or stops all together, and we are left on a new level (hopefully higher from where we began) that probably isn't quite where we want to ultimately end. I've experienced these moments several times, and have found only one similarity amongst them all: I broke out of the plateau without realizing it, and often as a result of persistence as opposed to some amazing revelation or sudden change in thinking.
Which leads me to my current dilemma: HLS has reached a plateau. Our lessons are still going well, she is still practicing consistently and productively, and we have many things to work on; however, the level of improvements from lesson to lesson has shrunk from what it was in the beginning of the semester. This is stressful for me because this is the first time I have encountered this as a teacher, and not a student. Do we continue addressing embouchure, air use and finger technique, as we have, or do I need to shift in to a "reminder" phase regarding these topics and start introducing other areas of focus into HLS' work - hoping that by not forgetting those concepts while focusing on something else helps her break out of this trend independent from me? I'm not entirely sure yet, but that is the route I am leaning towards. Our next lesson is tomorrow, so we'll see what I decide by then!
In other news, my "top ten" assignment from a few weeks ago seems to have resonated with most of my students (all but "student M" really - of which I'm saddened, but not surprised). Each of the kiddos has demonstrated a renewed interest in going to concerts and in applying what they hear and learn in different situations to what they are working on with me. This has ended up serving two purposes: a reminder for them as to why they are students of music, and a personal boost for me as to why I love teaching. How lovely. :-)
