Everything you need to know to become a music teacher
LikeMusic is an art that allows those who play it to express themselves freely. If you live for music, you might have considered using this talent and giving music lessons to others. To do this, you must first have a solid knowledge of musical language, solfège and other aspects that will help you in your future career as a music teacher. If you want to know more about how to become a private music teacher, read on!
Requirements to become a music teacher
Music teaching is a profession with a long tradition and is highly valued. Nowadays, even if you are self-taught, you will need to have certain training and requirements to be able to teach music.
- In the education system: If you want to be a teacher in schools, colleges and universities, you will need to be trained. You can do this in two ways: by studying for a university teaching degree, followed by a specialised master's degree related to music. Or, if you already have a university degree in Musicology or another music-related degree, you can study a PGCE or a master's degree in teaching with a specialisation in music.
- Be an expert on the instrument: For example, if you want to give drum lessons, your first task will be to know the instrument as well as possible. In your education you will be trained for this, as well as acquiring musical skills and perfecting your knowledge. In this way, you will be able to give music lessons successfully.
What music lessons can you specialise in?
Another big question for teachers who want to teach music is what to specialise in. There are so many instruments that you can teach. However, in order to choose the one that best suits you, you will have to consider very carefully which speciality is the most suitable for you. Some of them may be:
- Guitar lessons: This specialisation is one of the most typical and private guitar classes are in high demand, especially guitar lessons in London. In becoming a guitar tutor, you will reach many people who dream of being like their idols.
- Drum lessons: If you are interested in becoming a drum teacher, you can also enjoy a lot of popularity. In addition, drum tutors are often highly sought after, as it is a specialisation that attracts a lot of students.
- Private piano lessons: If you choose this path, you will have the opportunity to teach sweet melodies and harmonies to your students. The piano is a beautiful instrument and piano lessons are also in high demand, particularly piano lessons in London. However, you will also have to give your students a good knowledge of music theory and musical language.
- Violin lessons: The violin is a much-loved instrument, especially as it´s light and portable, and produces a beautiful sound that can accompany classical orchestras, traditional Irish music groups or as part of a folk band.
- Singing lessons: You don´t have to play a physical instrument to be a music tutor. If you´re a skilled singer, you could also teach private singing lessons or group lessons.
- Music theory and solfège: If you are a more technical teacher and enjoy teaching music score and solfège, this can be your specialisation. Solfège is the foundation of everything in music, so there will always be those who need to learn it.
Where you can give music lessons
Taking up teaching music lessons is a great challenge, and for this you will need a place where you can teach. And, above all, somewhere where you won't be disturbing anyone when you or your students start playing the instruments.
These are just some ideas of places where you can give your music lessons:
- At the student's home: If you aim to be a mobile private tutor, you can go directly to the student's home. The advantage of this is that you don't have to provide a space yourself, but you should try to have a soundproofing method so as not to disturb the neighbours.
- In academies: Many cities or large towns have academies where you can be a private guitar teacher or give private piano lessons. You can reach a lot of students without having to make a lot of effort, but you will not have much flexibility.
- In conservatories: Teaching drums, violin lessons or other instruments in a conservatory is similar to teaching in an academy. The difference is that in these places students tend to want to specialise more for the world of work.
- Music lessons online: You also have the option of giving music lessons online. If you don't have a degree, but you know that your knowledge can help many students, this is a good way to give music lessons.
How to become an online music tutor?
As we mentioned, becoming an online music teacher has its advantages. You don't have to have specific qualifications, but you do need to have gathered a lot of experience. Only in this way will you be able to help your students. To be a music tutor giving online lessons you need:
- A laptop or computer with a microphone and camera, plus a good internet connection. It is essential that in order to give your music lessons, the student can hear you well and that the sound quality of the instrument can be conveyed accurately. This way, the music lesson experience will be much better.
- A space in which to give online music lessons. Even if you are going to give the lessons over the internet, you will need to have a place where you can play your instrument without disturbing your neighbours.
- A place to find students. To become a music teacher and be able to give your music lessons, you will need to find students to teach. To do this, you can tell your circle of friends and acquaintances that this is going to be your new profession so that they can recommend you to others. You can also advertise on the internet and join platforms, such as FindTutors, where students can easily find you.