How to show gratitude for free music lessons

oystercatcher

I still have uncomfortable memories of being [STRIKE]forced[/STRIKE] encouraged to go to music lessons for years and years. I can still remember my teacher shouting " This is despicable" because I hadn't practiced. Is your son's teacher just being polite ?

My parents wasted money for years sending me to lessons because they wished they had been musical and hadn't had the chance. Eventually I was caught playing truant on a dark evening and they realised how much I hated the lessons. (I had asked and asked to give up before but they didn't listen )

I think an honest discussion with teacher and son would be worthwhile so nobody has time wasted or regrets .

Edited to say.... cake as thank you is always acceptable ,

tyllwyd

If he's grade 2/3 level, it seems a real shame that he isn't yet considered good enough to play with the band. Couldn't they find a simple part for him to play - it might be the best way of encouraging him and making it fun. If he's gone from not playing at all to grade 2 in a year, that sounds pretty good to me.


And edited to say --- I played the violin at primary school and never got beyond grade 3, but I happily played in the county orchestra for several years at the back of the 3rd violins. I was never going to be that good, but overall it was a positive experience looking back.

sunshinetours

AS above really - the tutor will be doing it because its giving something back. I was taught at a marching band in my youth and taught many others later and spent a lifetime so far in and around bands and still do now, even though not the marching variety nay more. I have some great friends and wonderful memories of both travelling with the band and also because of band (going to the US to see the best in the world for instance)

He really needs to feel part of the band to push him on and this is where cadet or youth bands are so important. One thing with music is you have to enjoy it otherwise it will never really click with you.

As far as a gift, as above something small and a note that their time and effort is appreciated will be more than enough, it rarely has anything to do with value of the gift

SailorSam

I think the type of person who would give lessons like this simply loves music and doesn't want it to die out. He's not doing it expecting anything in return. Something like a cake or bottle of wine, just to show your gratitude but he's probably already getting everything he wants just seeing the kids improve.
It's like the people who run kids football teams, or scout & cubs group.

DigForVictory

Another resounding vote for cake.

I got thugged through years of music practice (whining) to realise that I had actually achieved a level of competence. That's dashed proud moment & to get to grade two level, your lad has already gone through *several*. So nudge a little - and stick at it. Brass is a wonderful community to belong to!

System

The best gift for a music teacher is notes! Lots of em :rotfl:

Ozzuk

Perhaps you could blow his trombone for him? Must get tiring doing by himself.

I have nothing more adult to add.

steph2901

A thank you note and cake/wine/chocolates

another_login

Maybe go to one of the bands performances? Audiences are hard to come by Encourage other friends or family to join?

another_login

if they do regular concerts raffle prizes are always needed.