Unlock your teaching potential

Introducing ESTA’s MA in Practical Teaching

BY PHILIP AIRD

For instrumental music teachers, the journey of professional development is ongoing. The ESTA MA in Practical Teaching, delivered in collaboration with the University of Chichester, provides a unique opportunity to refine and expand teaching approaches in a way that is both deeply practical and academically rigorous. Designed for working teachers, this fully accredited Master’s degree balances flexibility with real-world application, equipping educators with the skills and knowledge to enhance their teaching and, ultimately, their students’ learning. It’s also very affordable!

One of the most significant advantages of the ESTA MA is its accessibility. Recognising the demanding schedules of music teachers, the course is delivered online, with a single residential study week at the University of Chichester. This structure ensures that teachers can continue their professional practice while engaging in meaningful study. Throughout the course, participants engage with a range of core teaching principles, from refining pedagogical strategies to exploring new methodologies. The programme is structured across several key modules, each designed to strengthen different aspects of instrumental teaching.

Teaching Strategies for Instrumental Teachers

In this module, teachers critically reflect on their current teaching methods. Why do we teach the way we do? How can we step outside our comfort zones to explore new approaches? By examining the historical development of instrumental teaching, participants assess which methods remain effective today and which may require adaptation. Teachers are encouraged to challenge traditional practices and develop innovative strategies that better serve today’s learners. Key themes include:

• Understanding current teaching methods

• Diagnosing learners’ needs

• Motivation and aptitude in learning

• Assessment strategies

• Whole-class, small-group, and one-toone teaching dynamics

How Children and Young People Learn to Play Instruments

Effective teaching requires an understanding of how students learn. This module explores different learning theories and how they apply to instrumental teaching. Participants analyse their own teaching methods, using video recordings to assess student engagement, teacher interaction, and lesson structure. The goal is to create a more student-centred learning environment, encouraging creativity, independent learning, and deeper engagement. Key topics include:

• Learning psychology and cognitive development

• The impact of cultural and social factors on learning

• Teacher-student interaction analysis

• Developing a balance between teacherled and student-led learning

Developing a Teaching Curriculum

This module clarifies the difference between a curriculum and a syllabus. Teachers often default to using exam syllabi as curricula, which can limit broader musical development. Here, participants design their own one-year curriculum tailored to their specific teaching contexts. Many choose to focus on beginner stages, while others tackle the critical intermediate level, where student retention is often a challenge. The practical application of this unit has led to real-world improvements, with some participants’ curricula being adopted by schools and music hubs as guiding frameworks for new teachers. Key focus areas:

• Personalised curriculum design

• Short, medium, and long-term lesson planning

• Holistic teaching approaches beyond technical development

• Selecting appropriate repertoire and resources

• Reflective teaching practice

Teaching Instrumental Technique

This highly practical module focuses on core instrumental techniques and how to teach them effectively. Teachers explore different strategies for instructing key technical skills, ensuring they have multiple methods to cater to diverse learners. A major component of this unit involves analysing video recordings of students and determining how best to approach their technical development. Assessment includes creating a short, highquality instructional video and teaching a real lesson based on the technique studied. Topics covered:

• Posture and instrument positioning

• Developing bowing and left-hand techniques

• Addressing common challenges such as vibrato and sautillé bowing

• Creating structured warm-ups and technical exercises

Teaching Individuals

A deeper dive into the psychology of learning, this module examines motivation, self-belief, and how to tailor teaching methods to individual students. Teachers explore traditional and innovative pedagogical approaches and critically assess their own repertoire choices to better suit the needs of different learners. Skills developed:

• Planning and articulating teaching strategies

• Comparative analysis of learner progress

• Using research to enhance teaching methods

• Understanding individual learning styles

Creative Repertoire

This module encourages teachers to think beyond standard repertoire, exploring how creative approaches can enhance technical and musical development. Participants analyse traditional teaching pieces and develop new teaching materials using various styles, including classical, jazz, and pop. Key elements:

• Composition and arrangement for teaching purposes

• Integrating creativity into instrumental lessons

• Adapting repertoire to suit student needs

Dissertation – The Teacher and Student Learning Process

The final stage of the MA focuses on research and reflection, allowing teachers to study the learning process from both student and teacher perspectives. Participants undertake lessons as students themselves, experiencing first-hand the challenges their pupils face. They then apply this understanding to their own teaching, refining their methods through observation and self-analysis. By the end of the dissertation process, teachers emerge with a deeper awareness of how students learn and how their own teaching can evolve to be more effective.

Why Choose the ESTA MA in Practical Teaching?

Accredited and Respected – Delivered in partnership with the University of Chichester, ensuring high academic standards

Flexible Learning – Online delivery with a single residential week, making it accessible for working professionals

Immediate Practical Benefits – Teachers apply their learning directly to their practice, with real improvements in student progress

Supportive Community – Join a network of like-minded educators committed to excellence in instrumental teaching

What Our Students Say

“This course has enabled me to thoroughly reflect on approaches to string teaching and improve my own teaching skills whilst studying for a specific qualification ” –Rachel Hall

“This course has helped me improve my teaching further through self-reflection and sharing ideas with a lovely team of mentors and colleagues. It’s been just what I needed at this point of my teaching career!” – David Novalbos Muela

“It’s such a unique course, I’d been looking for relevant professional development opportunities for a while and this was the first which seemed specifically tailored to me as a cello teacher. The tutors are inspirational, and I have made great friends from all over the world All of us share the same passion for teaching string instruments!” – Danielle Jones

For those looking to deepen their understanding, refine their methods, and advance their careers, the ESTA MA in Practical Teaching offers an invaluable opportunity. Find out more and take the next step in your professional journey at ESTA Education.