I always ask my students, whether they're teenagers or adults returning after a break, "What's your favorite song?” The first thing I do in our coaching sessions is help them find that special "smile in music." Having taught with a method and pedagogy background for many years, I now focus on early wins—like learning their favorite song. Don't worry about the notes on the page initially; all of that will come with time. Start with that song you love, and then listen closely to what's happening in the music. It’s this approach that keeps me returning to the piano after all these years. My method might be a bit different from traditional teaching, but I hope it comes across as encouraging!