Be patient. Give praise for small successes and correct with love. Soon there will be fewer corrections and more successes as they gain confidence due to your compassionate spirit.

I once had student who would stop in the middle of a piece to comment on any random item in view. I wanted to hang a sign that said “Music Studio Closed Forever!” Instead I cleared everything off the piano, gave him more “off the bench” time using a floor keyboard and music games. This student is now a professional musician.

You will be challenged by time-wasters entering your studio with facial expressions, body language and excessive chatter that indicates that they would rather be anywhere else besides sitting on a piano bench. Meet them where they are. Do your best to “convert” them! You never know whose future you may impact by believing that your students can succeed and giving your all before giving up on them.