Good feedback is a clear map: What already sounds good, what's the next step and how do you practice it? Here's how to give feedback that works.
1. Right away and during playing
The big advantage of live lessons: you hear right away what's happening. Give short feedback directly after a run-through, while the feeling is still fresh.
2. One focus per run-through
Not five things at once. Choose the most important point, have them practice it and then give the next one.
3. Specific instead of general
Instead of | Try |
“That wasn't very good.” | “From bar 9, you speed up. Play that passage with the metronome at 70.” |
“More feeling!” | “Get louder in the chorus and hold the last note two beats longer.” |
“Breathe properly.” | “Before the phrase, breathe deep into your belly and keep your shoulders down.” |
4. Start positive
Start with something that really went well: “The C–G chord change works without a pause now!” That keeps motivation high, even if criticism follows.
5. Show instead of just explaining
Demonstrate the passage, slowly and clearly. A second camera on your hands or instrument helps enormously. Then have them play it back right away.
6. Let them hear themselves
Record a run-through and listen to it together. Students recognize a lot themselves this way. Learn more in How do I use recordings in lessons?
7. Let them assess themselves
Ask: “What felt good? What do you still want to improve?” That's how students learn to listen to themselves when practicing at home.
The sandwich method
Praise, then one specific point to improve, then motivation: “Your dynamics are great. Play the runs a bit more evenly. Next week you'll nail it!”
8. Write it down
Write the most important points in the notes so they're not forgotten at home. The lesson summary also sums them up automatically. Learn more in How do I write notes and homework? and What are lesson summaries?
With children
Short, simple sentences, lots of praise for effort instead of just results, and keep parents informed about progress.