Choosing the right piano teacher takes time.
Begin by making a list of your goals for piano study.
Here are some questions to get you started:
- Do you want to play professionally or recreationally?
- What kind of music do you want to play? Do you want to play mostly popular, classical, jazz, a little bit of everything…?
- What skills do you want to learn? Do you want to learn to compose, improvise, play by ear, read music, all of the above…?
- Do you want performance opportunities? If so, do you prefer casual or competitive?
- Do you like making music with others? What kind of groups would you like working with? Some teachers offer piano ensembles, chamber groups, rock bands, etc.
- Do you like working with technology?
- What kind of motivation do you need to succeed?
Once you have defined your goals then you can begin looking for a qualified teacher.
Here are some places to find a good teacher:
- Referral from family members, friends and others who know music teachers in the area. They can give you insider information to the music studio.
- Search the directory of your local association of MTNA. These directories list teacher specializations, qualifications, and studio location.
- Call local universities for recommendations.
Once you have your list of potential teachers begin interviewing and comparing.
Here are some things to consider during the interview:
- Education and Experience
- Does the teacher have a degree in piano performance or teaching?
- Does the teacher have any teaching certifications?
- How long has s/he been teaching piano?
- Does the teacher play/teach any other instruments?
- Teaching Curriculum
- What age groups does the teacher focus on?
- Does the teacher focus on popular, classical, jazz, etc?
- Does the teacher offer instruction in reading music, composing, improvising, etc?
- Does the teacher stress performance? What kind of performance? is it mostly competitive, instructive, formal, informal, etc?
- Does the teacher offer ensemble opportunities? Are there group lessons? Are there studio ensembles?
- Is technology an important part of the curriculum? does the teacher use music apps, websites, recording software, etc?
- What are the incentive programs? Does the teacher offer games or unique performance opportunities? Does the teacher give stickers, award trophies, host parties, etc.?
- Professionalism
- Does the teacher have a professional studio? Do they have a quality instrument, footstool, office, computer, etc.?
- Does the teacher have a studio policy? What is the make-up policy? how much is tuition? Is parent participation required? How much practice time is expected?
Be cautious in your search and avoid compromising quality for cost. Playing the piano is a lifetime joy and finding the right teacher is key to success. Good luck!
– Jennifer Stadler, NCTM Piano Teacher Oklahoma City, Oklahoma