Applied studio instruction is a field of education set in the context of a one-to-one setting, traditionally seen as a master-apprentice model, where the "training of skills" is said to be a priority. However, as the field evolves and is influenced by other areas in teaching and learning, one begins to look for ways to apply student-centered or constructivist strategies to the music studio. In this article, we will look broadly at what it means to be student-centered in the music studio, breaking down the areas into five categories of rapport, motivation, critical thinking, content specific areas such as practice, and authentic assessment. In order to connect theory with practice, relevant resources have been analyzed followed with specific examples of practice. In this way, readers may both understand more fully the context of the field, the theory underpinning these pedagogical concepts, and connect them with examples of practice.