Why Multiple Teachers Works Best: The Power of Diverse Perspectives in Piano Education

Last year I read a research study in a medical journal and it's finding keeps coming back to me whenever I look at what we're doing at Oclef.

The study produced an interesting statistic that has caught the attention of both researchers and practitioners: the mortality rate of patients rises significantly when they are seen by fewer healthcare providers. This finding was reported by EClinicalMedicine in 2021 and it shows the importance of having multiple perspectives on a patient's health when they are in the care of healthcare professionals. This multi-perspective approach helps to make sure that no aspect of a patient's condition is overlooked and that the patient receives the most comprehensive care possible.

But what does the mortality rate of ER patients have to piano education?

Just as a patient benefits from the diverse knowledge and approaches of multiple doctors and nurses, a piano student can thrive under the guidance of multiple teachers. At Oclef, we have completely embraced this concept. We believe it is essential for unlocking each student’s full potential. By exposing our students to a variety of teaching styles, techniques, and perspectives, we are able to provide a more holistic and comprehensive understanding of music and tailor them to each student.

Why is this multi-teacher approach so crucial? Isn’t consistency in learning important?

While consistency is definitely valuable, it is not the only ingredient for effective learning. When a student is limited to a single teacher, their training is closed off to only that teacher's particular strengths and expertise. This often results in gaps in the student's development, as certain skills or angles of skills may be underemphasized or ignored completely.

Having multiple teachers introduces a wealth of diverse experiences and specialties. One teacher might excel in technical proficiency, while another could be adept at nurturing musical expression. One might have a knack for demystifying complex rhythms, whereas another could be particularly effective at helping students manage performance anxiety. As long as this is led or driven by a single professor, the multiple voices and perspectives come together with a net positive result as they get filtered through this primary intersection.
helping students manage performance anxiety
Through interactions with various teachers, students are given a broad spectrum of repertoire, vocabulary, approaches to teaching, and problem-solving strategies. They learn to adapt to different communication styles and expectations, ultimately becoming more well-rounded musicians and learners. This not only positively impacts the student's learning, but it nurtures their independence.

But the benefits extend beyond mere skill acquisition. Multiple teachers also provide a robust support network. Students gain more than one mentor who is invested in their progress, offering encouragement and guidance through challenges. This network can be particularly valuable during times of struggle or discouragement.

Fresh perspectives can be incredibly powerful. Sometimes, a student may hit a wall with a particular piece or concept. Despite weeks of effort with their primary teacher, they just can’t seem to make progress. Introducing the perspective from another teacher can bring a different approach to the problem, unlocking understanding and creating a breakthrough. It's similar to a light bulb moment—suddenly, the student sees the path forward. Potentially that teacher may just say the same thing the student has already heard many times over, but with a slightly different set of words or coming from a slightly different angle.

At Oclef, we’ve witnessed the dramatic impact of having multiple teachers. Our students flourish under the collective expertise of our faculty, each teacher bringing unique strengths to the table. This model demands coordination and effective communication among teachers, but the results are undeniably positive. It would be very odd for any of our students to shift back to a one-teacher model, they now see it as not only less ideal - but developmentally unhealthy.
Multiple Perspectives
To parents and students, I encourage you to embrace the value of multiple perspectives. Seek out opportunities to learn from different teachers, whether through a multi-teacher school like Oclef or through supplementary lessons and workshops. This approach can enrich your musical journey in ways you might not have imagined.

To my fellow piano teachers outside Oclef, please consider how collaboration with colleagues might enhance your students’ learning experiences. Sharing insights and strategies will not only benefit your students, but will also contribute to your own professional growth as an educator.

Learning to play the piano, much like maintaining good health, is a complex endeavor. By leveraging the collective wisdom and perspectives of multiple experts, we provide our students with the best possible chance for success and fulfillment in their musical pursuits.

The tortoise always wins,
JT