rockschool exams

[Gill the Piano]

Perhaps the teacher isn't comfortable with classical? I know that (if I were desperate enough to teach again - which I ain't!) I would never teach jazz/rock, because I don't know enough about it. And actually, if she did the usual Associated Board exams, the third piece generally includes a jazzy option now....they've caught on to jazz 50 years late!
Perhaps you should have a word and say that you'd like her to have a more classical grounding; it's easy enough to learn jazz/rock by applying classical knowledge, but not so easy the other way round. And when it comes to the crunch, money isn't easy for any parent, let alone a single one, and you have a right to have your money used as you wish.

[SteveHopwood]

I have used RochSchool a couple of times recently, but for older pupils for whom the usual exam boards have no attraction.

I have found the pieces to be well written for their purpose. I was able to discuss the musical aspects of the pieces in as much depth as those I teach when entering pupils for AB and Trinity exams.

The important thing is to interest children in the music they are playing. I regard myself as a 'classical' musician, yet have changed the repertoire I teach entirely, in the last two years.

I now use piano music composed within the last 15 years or so, by the likes of Pamela Wedgwood, Martha Mier, Mike Cornick et al. This repertoire has caused great enthusiasm amongst children and revolutionised the practise patterns of many.

Maybe your daughter's teacher has had a similar experience. I suggest you discuss your concerns with the teacher and try to find out the direction in which your little girl's studies are going.

Hope this helps

Steve