hi,
this seems like the right place to start my search; last year i finished a BMus and thoroughly enjoyed it, and want to start piano teaching. (i am currently living abroad so can't find pupils at home until i get back there)

Could you tell me - what is the logical progression .... i know the diploma doesn't teach you to teach - its more of an exam of 'how well do you teach' right? So where do i start? by finding pupils? do i just jump in there?!

I think i'd like to do some qualifications so that i know what i'm doing!! and then build it from there. Any help would be appreciated!!

Thank you!

Basically, if you throughly understand your theory and your instrument, then you should be able to teach! I started teaching 3 yrs ago when I had passed my grade 8 and you learn how to teach as you go along! There is no specific 'way' to teach, as everyone reacts differently and has different ways in which they find learning easier- so if you feel confident, go for it!

Do you need to go through any tests like school teachers do (other than grades)?

Hi Paul
I don't believe you need any specific tests - just enough knowledge and experience of playing to be able to answer your pupils' questions. I started teaching when I had G6 practical and G5 theory, and continued to learn whilst I taught.

Hi Rachl,

A good place to start is the Alfred series, buy the books Preparatory 1A and the Level 1 for older pupils and ask for the free 'teachers guide' to go with them. These will lead you by the hand through the books lesson by lesson. You can then compare with other tutors as you become more experienced.

Study the books first and then put in a small linage advert in your local free paper or advertiser for about six weeks.

I also recomend keeping up with lessons and reading books about teaching. Suzuki and Bastion do very good ones.

Click through to my web site below for details and lots of free teacher resources. Have fun.