As you get further removed from the age and generation of your students, how do you maintain mutual reference points?
There are at least two ways. You should probably use them both.
- Stay current! Do your best to engage with current music, styles, trends. It’s important to draw a distinction between the kind of teacher who is trying to “stay young” by imitating youth and the kind of teacher who relates to students by understanding and relating to current trends.
- Take time to build shared references. Set aside time for listening, talking, asking questions. When you are listening, discuss how the music works and how it makes you feel. Makes sure that that these references are offered both by the teacher and the students.
The time it takes to implement either of these strategies can seem like wasted time in the middle of the always-packed rehearsal process. But a deep well of shared musical reference points can be a lifesaver in quickly solving musical challenges and clarifying interpretation.