Good to learn several styles

As I was teaching one of my students today, it occurred to me that she had been learning in only one style for most of her life.  She had been taught in a very structured classical style and didn’t have much freedom in her expression and her ability to flow with the music.  Rubato style is not for everything, but it is very important to be able to be expressive with your music.  I think that comes from studying several different styles and being able to be comfortable with your songs.

Another thing I have noticed is that people are generally either good sight readers or good at playing by ear and composing.  Usually, people have to work harder at one or the other.  I, myself, am better at sightreading than playing by ear or improvising.  It seems that the people who have the other talent have an easier time being more expressive in their music.  They take more liberties with the notes and make every song theirs.