Informal learning practices, based on Lucy Green's research into how popular musicians learn, offer students in the music classroom the opportunity to explore collaborative, aural-based learning that is guided, rather than directed, by the teacher. Over a period of five years, informal learning projects were included in the music curricula of two secondary schools in which I was working. While there has been commentary on the impact of informal learning practices from the student engagement and achievement perspective, little consideration has been given to the role and influence of the teacher. Here, aspects of student learning and the role of the teacher are discussed from a personal perspective.