19.11.13

How To Become A Piano Teacher In A Few Easy Steps

By Katrina Wheeler


The biggest reward of teaching is the inspiration you give to others. The added benefit of teaching is knowing that you have the ability to share your passion for music with someone else. Teaching music is sharing a gift that will last a lifetime. Learning how to become a piano teacher is actually quite simple. There are a few uncomplicated steps that you will need to take.

If you are hoping to become an instructor, you must have a basic knowledge and understanding of music. You must already know how to play the piano. Determine the form and style of music you are prepared to teach. Choose a curriculum and appropriate levels of play for your instruction. Let others know of your qualifications and your constraints. Accept students who have less experience than yourself. It would be difficult to teach someone who is proficient in classical music, if you only have three or four years of experience.

Observe other teachers. Ask if you can sit in on a few lessons. Carefully watch how they instruct their students. Inquire as to which books they find useful when teaching. Look into joining different music associations. Use the internet to research. Although most states don't require it, you may wish to acquire a teaching certificate.

Choose the curriculum which best suits your teaching style and comfort. Also, consider how that curriculum would suit specific students. Select the teaching location. While many people choose to instruct at their homes, others may rent small commercial offices in which to perform their lessons.

Whether you wish to instruct full time or part time, select the days and times you will be available for giving lessons each week. Determine how much you will charge for your lessons and how long you wish for them to last. Most lessons are in half hour increments. This is really important when you are teaching young children. They will lose interest if they have to sit for long periods of time.

Now that you know what where you will hold your lessons, decide what curriculum you will use, determine what rates you will charge and establish the days and times you are available to begin receiving students. Place ads in local newspapers, on bulletin boards at grocery stores, contact guidance counselors at schools nearby, place ads on the internet. As each potential student responds to the ads, determine their experience and begin making your lesson plans.

Learning never stops. Keep in mind that frequent practice makes continuous progress. As an instructor, you need to make sure that you continue to learn and grow as you teach others. Find an instructor for yourself, so that you can improve your skills. Daily practice is very important.

Understand the basic concepts of music, know how to play piano, continue learning, choose exciting lesson plans, advertise and you will be on your way. Now that you know how to become a piano teacher, the rest is up to you. Stay passionate and share your inspiration with others.




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