Finding a Music Teacher

Hi everyone,

In today's post I will be talking about finding a music teacher within your chosen instrument.

When trying to find a music teacher its important to find one that will work with you to get you to where you want to be, and this could be for a number of different reasons.

You may want a music teacher for :-

- You want to learn an instrument with a private music teacher to get the best out of you

- You may want to work through your graded music exams

- Work on developing your confidence in performing

- Just to have fun as a hobby

But, you may also want to change music teachers further down the line; and this can be for a number of reasons :-

- You have progressed through all of your grades

- Change your mind about learning your chosen instrument

- You might not be getting what you need to progress and develop with that particular teacher

- Your personal circumstances have changed such as going to university or moving out the area

What to Look For when Choosing a Music Teacher

Personality

Do you think that you will get on with them?

Do they share a similar music interest as you?

Are they friendly and approachable? 

You have to feel comfortable with your music teacher, and you need to know that they are good fit for you and your musical interests.

Track Record

What are their personal pass rates like for Graded exams and Diplomas?

This is important, as if you want to do your Graded Music exams; as you want to do well under your chosen music teacher. But, also if a teacher is just starting out teaching music please give them a chance, and see how it goes. 

Your music teacher should know the graded exam syllabuses for chosen instrument, and they should be able to talk you through it and what to expect and what options you have to take your grades. There's more variety on what you can do for your graded exams than ever before.

Teaching Methods

Your teacher might start you off using a method book, and take it from there the more you progress. But, your teacher should be able to adopt to what you want to learn whether its just for fun or through your grades. Make sure that you have a say in what you are interested in learning, as you can always try and explore something different such as a new composer or genre of music.

Are they Based Locally

Will your first music teacher be based locally to you?

Can you get to them easily?

Do you take public transport?

This is important, as they need to be easily accessible to you so then you can get to your lessons.

Cost

How much do they charge per lesson?

Can you pay in advance for lessons?

What type of lessons do they offer?

Some music teachers offer one to one lessons, and some offer a mixture of one to one lessons and group lessons. It just depends on what you are looking for, and what your budget is for your lessons.