Deborah, sorry I can't be a bit more specific but I feel there are so many aspects to what "makes a good teacher" that all I can tell you from personal experience is EVERYTHING. I did my training both as a performer and a teacher first at a Conservatorium of Music and later at a University. What I bring to my students is a mix of mostly my formal education but also many other elements including my own private curiousity about and studies of psychology and philosphy, my training in and exposure to yoga and other body work, my (very) early dance training, my two years study in an undergrad course of acting and my dogged follow up of learning the proper teaching of contemporary styles of singing and probably much more.
It's not a simple thing to outline. I am one of those people who has never stopped wanting to learn.
Listening to and knowing who is out there performing, be it by live performance, CD, radio, internet, television, magazines books, whatever means possible is essential. Likewise with teachers. (So many books, so little money to buy them.) Keeping in touch with others in related professions (this list especially is INVALUABLE), getting the best education you can find, staying flexible in your outlook and attitude the same time maintaining your integrity, all this and more figures into what makes a good teacher.
It's not always possible to have a mentor but it can be a wonderfully supportive way to start. My own teachers, both good and bad, have probably been my biggest influences.
Is there any information you can give us about what your aspirations and aims are that might lead to us being able to give you more specific opinion?
Michelle
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