I had several piano teachers as a child and young person. I learned something from each of these teachers.
By far the hardest teacher was the one I had in high school. She was extremely tough on me and even difficult at times. We often disagreed. Our biggest obstacle was I wanted to play other styles than just classical and she refused. Even a hymn would have been nice, but she was resistant to anything but classical music. This led me to become greatly discouraged and not practiced what she assigned as much as I should. I’d rather play what appealed to me.
The punishment for not practicing and being as polished as she preferred was to receive a smack on the knuckles. {I don’t recommend this.} However, because she pushed me, I was able to receive a partial scholarship the first time I went to college.
Once I became a teacher and had my own roll of students, I was able to better understand where this former teacher of mine was coming from. I was greatly discouraged when students did not practice or seem to care. Believe me, a teacher can tell! 
I had a greater appreciation for this woman and the discipline she instilled in me. Ironically, today I greatly enjoy playing classical pieces; although that is not the only style I play.
A few years ago, I decided to say thank you to this woman. I wasn’t sure if she’d even remember me, but I wrote her a thank you note telling her how much I appreciated her and all that she taught me. I never received a reply, but felt considerably better just knowing that I had said thank you.
What teacher’s do you need to thank?
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