Kathleen Melago: In Tune with Students

In Tune with Students: Nurturing Growth in Private Music Lessons

Kathleen A. Melago

'In Tune with Students' is filled with practical insights and strategies for any music teacher who engages students in individual or small-group lessons, including K–12 instrumental and choral educators, university professors, private studio teachers, and professional musicians.

Drawing from decades of experience as a certified music educator, private teacher, and performing musician, Kathleen Melago covers all the ins and outs of creating and sustaining a private studio that nurtures the social-emotional growth of students.

Organized according to the three pillars of Identity, Belonging, and Agency, this book explores a range of essential topics, including:

• Helping students discover their musical identities
• Building meaningful relationships with students
• Facilitating opportunities for student voice and choice
• Navigating emotions like excitement, stress, and anxiety
• Scheduling lessons, selecting repertoire, and setting goals
• Guiding student practice and providing feedback
• Working with diverse populations
• Setting healthy work-life boundaries and prioritizing teacher self-care

Also included are example student-teacher scenarios, perspectives from experienced educators, downloadable worksheets, and dozens of reflection questions that teachers can use to learn more about themselves and to structure their own lessons.

No matter what level you teach—beginners, advanced musicians, university students, or adult learners—this book will strengthen what you already do, sharpen your focus, and reinvigorate your teaching.