Hello. I have been told that 'when you start teaching is when you really start to learn' by many people now. However, there seem to be a few people who think it unwise with such little experience.

I was considering teaching piano. I have done grade 8, and I know several people who teach without this qualification. I also play the violin and the organ.

I am seriously considering this. I was also wondering how to go about getting pupils. Should I just post advertisements?

opinions please!

I heavily advice anyone against teaching unless you really think you'll be able to cope. It isn't easy. Apart from that, people are right - teaching is a fantastic way to learn, and it's the logical next step after grade 8

I think all new teachers start with just a few pupils, and that is a good way to start as you get the feel of the job, decide if you really like it, and can then expand. You do learn so much by teaching, and you find that pupils vary so much too. I have also learnt that as teachers we should continue to play as much as possible and keep learning from others ourselves.

I don't think it's a matter of qualifications but why you would like to teach which will determine your success. If it will be your only source of income, then you'll have a real challenge ahead of you. There are easier and more guaranteed ways to make money. But if the idea of teaching is something that really drives you, is something that you think you will love then plunge right in. Put an add in your local paper, approach schools and ask if they accept adds for their school newsletters. Some music stores have a public notice board you may be allowed to leave an add or a business card. If students are happy with you, then it won't take long for word to spread, especially if you let your students know that you'd like to teach others. Be generous with your business cards - I've recruited students when I've bought furniture and when I had to give a statement about something to the police!!

Also, if you're really serious about starting your own studio, then this site is priceless

Piano Teaching Studio

Remember, the only way to get 'experience' is to experience!!

All the best

thanks for the advice, and the website is really excellent. I have some potential pupils already! You're right minsmusic - they come from the strangest places. One person heard me playing organ in a funeral and asked me about their daughter, somebody from a bookshop saw me with music books and inquired. It would not be my source of income though, I am driven, but you're right - it is not the most reliable way to make money. I want the experience of teaching people new things and encouraging skills in people. That is what's driving me!

I teach because i can't imagine doing anything else but i also love working as a professional musician. Just go for it, you'll figure out fairly quickly if you have the right appitude for it. You can either teach privately or work for a Music school as i do. I wish you every luck in your endeavours!