By: ...and again, in Seattle

...and again, in Seattle — Mon, 24 May 2010 00:53:26 +0000

As a teacher myself, (not music), I recognize the value of a balance between these approaches. Some learners are so auditory, simply describing how to produce a particular tone will not work. A mix of show and tell from my teacher is helping me find my voice again after nearly twenty years away from singing. He uses imagery of all sorts to explain how to position my throat, tongue, lips, etc., to produce the desired tone and timbre. Once I’ve had a chance to try it, he sings a little bit with me–but only in technique work, never in songs. The images he conjurs up become a kind of shorthand when he wants to remind me of a specific technique. Again, as a teacher, I’m not sure I would completely trust someone who didn’t put their teachings into practice–how do I know this works if I’ve never heard them do it?

By: philly drummer-gal

philly drummer-gal — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 14:21:05 +0000

Great post Leah! My experience with drum teachers is similar. Drummers learn a great deal from listening and watching but the best instructors have a way of joining you at what ever level you’re working on. I studied with an amazing percussionist last year, Nate Buonviri. He discussed drums and music theory in an incredibly inspiring manner. Intelligence and passion, attention to detail, encouragement and clear feed back are all part of tell, not show. When you get the right kind of “tell” – the “show” carries a huge impact.

Comments on: When “Tell, Don’t Show” Makes Sense

By: ...and again, in Seattle

By: philly drummer-gal