The mindset of the pianist is an important part of the ability to play with style and flair. The teacher should encourage students to become musically independent, but it is difficult for students to feel free to be imaginative if the music is unprepared. Ideally, students beyond the very early elementary stage should be able to follow the composer's directions in the score and should strive to learn the correct notes, rhythms, dynamics and articulations on their own. Playing with style and imagination involves refining articulations, phrasing and dynamics, and the instructor should help students develop the necessary faculties to do so. He or she should work with students on ear training, teaching them to listen for balance, phrasing and dynamic contrast.
Teachers have to encourage a sense of joy and freedom in their students' playing.
From the very beginning, students can develop an inquiring mind, an ability to listen critically and a desire to project their own ideas through the composer's music. Here are several ways to aid students in developing a freedom of expression. After he forms a precise definition from his general term and makes a decision about the exact quality that he wishes to convey, assist him in bringing that quality to his playing. Story Line Developing a story line helps students visualize the overall piece and make choices about how to convey the larger sections in the music. Students will think more creatively and use their imaginations, and the teacher can help by creating stories about their pieces.