If you went to school and played an instrument, chances are you have developed skills that you can share with others. If you have a passion for music, that is a great segment into teaching your musical skill. Here are some tips to get started.
You can teach kids, teenagers and even adults your musical skills. There are opportunities at the conservatory level and college level for experienced and proficient players as well. If you had done any serious musical study, chances are you will know where you fall on the charts. However, for teaching kids and teenagers typically your musical pedagogy (or teaching method) is more important to master. Teaching is different from playing, and those who come in underprepared will attest of the challenges. You need to develop a curriculum and a schedule. If you are not able to improve your student, people will start to leave.
You can teach at your local musical instrument seller. They typically market their products to those people who bought their school-grade instruments from the store. It is usually good enough to get started. Some people who study music exclusively in school may choose to teach at a home studio.
Opening your home practice
If you start a home studio, you will need to find customers. This is the next step, and you want to work for others organizations to begin with, as it is easier. You can convert a room in your house into your studio. This will allow you to teach and keep your home life separate. There are other benefits to having a separate room in your house exclusively for business. Please consult with your financial advisor to learn about some of these benefits.
You can start listing your advertisements in locations where these people congregate. Coffee shops are a good example. You can also create a website and list your services on craigslist. One of the best ways is through word of mouth. If you can find people to vouch for your services (provided you are good), you can usually develop a client base this way, then live off of referrals for awhile. You should also make your services available to the public through library programs or through playing gigs. If you can also perform, then you might list your services afterwards to attract students that like your music.
If you teach younger students, then you will have to work around the school year schedule. This means there will be an influx of students when school starts, and if there is a school break, expect student turnout to be lessened. If you have serious students, who aspire to practice professionally, then they may continue with you year round. If you can inspire your student to learn, he will also stick around as well. There is a fine line between being strict and being too lenient. Some students need discipline, while others desire freedom and are just taking lessons because they have to. If you can find good students, you will probably feel more fulfilled as well. The key is in balance, and working to your skills.