Oops, Bruce, I think I should've made it clearer. I am referring to commercial music schools and not a credited institution of any kind. I have attended a formal credited institution and I understand why the need for auditions etc. But in the commercial/public sector, students at all levels should have the opportunity to learn from the pros too (whoever is available).
If you are an extremely popular teacher and is high on demand, then create a waiting list (or even raise your fees) and let potential students queue up for your time. But screening students based on their learning abilities can in turn demoralize potential students who might not be, in the beginning, prove to be capable (based on the teacher's standards). I think the minute you step into the commercial educational market here, then you have made a decision to educate. Screening students based on their abilities is a form of discrimination in my opinion. Its like basically trying to find an easier way to make the same money. In my opinion, everyone deserves the same learning opportunity from anyone. Some students may not have the ability get to a certain level of playing due to certain reasons, but why should he or she be stopped from having the opportunity to try from the beginning? Also, on the side, how would you know from that initial stage of screening that the beginner will not have the potential to even supersede your own skills? I say, just give everyone a shot!
QUOTE:-"Schools have grades that progress students through the learning stages, so it is for those who teach drums. You wouldn't get your master's degree from the same school that taught you your 'ABCs', just as much as you wouldn't have the same teacher, too. "
I have to disagree with this statement. We are discussing about music education in the commercial sector. You can find very pro musicians who can take a beginner to a bachelors degree level with no problems (within the same school). You just need to know where to look.
