This is an absolutely brilliant book! Give me some roof-tops so I can shout from them! Written in a friendly avuncular style in easy-to-read language, the book teems with ideas and solutions for all aspects of instrumental teaching. It is no exaggeration to say that every page contains several useful ideas that willbe welcomed by any instrumental or vocal teacher. A major feature of the book is Paul's 'simultaneous learning', a teaching strategy holistic in it's approach. Other chapters deal with the right brain, practice, sight-reading and group teaching. This book should be in every teacher's brief case (not on their book shelf); it should be on the CT ABRSM reading list (if not there already); at the very least it should be in the library of every instrumental music service in the country. Enough from me - just go out and buy it.
Esta News and Views 31 no 4
Harris covers...most of the current teaching debates that are included in any good teaching course: Sound before symbol, learning styles, right vs left brain learning, group teaching, reflective practice and Harris's own concept of simultaneous learning. The writing is concise and often memorable ('if you do what you've always done, you'll get what you've always got') and throughout Harris encourages readers first to reflect on and than think of ways of developing their own teaching strategies. The book is full of practical suggestions and the presentation is excellent. If you haven't been on a teaching course in the last five years, do buy this!
Piano Professional January 2007