Tips for giving lessons

[jeffsmith0992]

Hey guys!
I became a tech st the beginning of the marching season for my high school that I graduated from and as of now I have taken over as official Percussion Instructor. With marching season being over, and us not having funds to do an indoor show, I have a few students asking for lessons to get a head start for next year.
I have never given a lesson but I am confident in my abilities as a player and my ability to connect with the students. I was hoping to get some tips/advice on giving lessons as a beginning instructor.
Thanks in advance!

[schorsquatch]

If your marching season is over, and there is no indoor show pending, then I would have your students investigate solo & ensemble, and offer lessons for that.

Just like any other endeavor, the "trick" (if there is one) for lessons is understanding the student's needs, and planning ahead. Set long term goals, and build your lesson plans around progressing towards the long-term goals in little steps.

I always enjoyed giving private lessons, because it allowed me to focus on a single student and to give them my full attention for a period of time. It is also much easier to hold them accountable for their progress. Combined with S&E, that's a situation where students can really mature.