Getting Students

[cutewendy]

Hi! I'm a high school junior. A year ago, I started teaching my friend's sister. After getting a "I" rating @ State solo and ensemble festival, I started gaining confidence. My student (my only one) is doing really well. But, I just can't seem to get anymore. My teacher doesn't teach a lot, so she is not able to send me students. How do I get new students? How do I get my name out as a piano teacher?

[julia_stewart]

Dear Wendy:

It's great that you are teaching your friend's sister.  It's sounds as though you are talented and the extra confidence you're gaining will serve you well.  I would suggest that you tell the music teacher(s) at school (and anywhere else) that you are interested in taking more students.  If you go to church or a place of worship, the music director can be helpful also - and will certainly know other people who can connect you to new students.  Keep doing your best and it will pay off!

Julia

[ludwig]

well done first of all. The best way to get more students is to encourge your student to participate in competitions and concerts. If you could let other people see how good they are, then you've gained a reputation for a piano teacher. Also there's nothing wrong with advertising yourself, or asking. You could also join teaching associations and do a program of theirs. They'll recommend kids to you. goodluck.

[princess]

at my high school, we have a music program.  those in this program must be "teachers" holding a gr 8 certificate (for piano).  i joined this program because i started teaching when i  was in gr 9 and i really enjoyed it. my first students were actually from the house behind mine in the alley.  after teaching them for a bit, i realized i love children and teaching.  in gr 10, i applied for the  music program thingy at my school.  unfortunately, i applied half-way thru the year and all the elem students registered had their teachers.  i waited til gr 11 and i finally got students at the feeder elementary schools.   when the school year ended, i didn't want my students to stop practising and/or playing so i talked to their parents (who shared the same views) so we arranged something over the summer.  they are now my private students still and i'm still teaching at the elem school.  the main point is to maybe start a music program at your school by talkin to the principals at your school and the school you're wanting to reach out to.  then make posters around the elem school or the ones u're planning to teach at.  make sure u leave a number so they can contact you.  then you arrange something.  either teach at the elem school if they allow you or teach at home.