How can I find a good/competent teacher?

[dev]

I'm a beginner, and just bought my first (digital) piano, and now I have to learn to play it. I've been reading up on basic music theory, and practicing reading basic music notation since I don't want to spend $$ on really basic stuff like "This is a grand staff. This is a treble clef." etc etc seeing as I'm unemployed, and in the poorhouse after buying that piano.

I'm 19, so I'm starting a bit late. I used to play violin when I was in elementary and middle school, but gave it up in high school. I live in Long Beach, CA, 90808, and I'm looking for a teacher around here. Any tips on finding one? I would like it if they taught Chaun Chang's method detailed here: https://members.aol.com/cc88m/PianoBook.html since I've heard many good things about it.

How much do piano lessons usually cost, anyhow? on average, of course.

[nolan]

Check out newspaper listings and the Yellow Pages, sometimes teachers will advertise. Ask around...maybe your high school music teachers (band, choir, orch.) would be able to recommend someone. If you have any friends that take lessons, ask who teaches them. Are there any piano studios in your city? Someone at a music shop might be able to recommend you a teacher. I would say that your best bet on finding a reliable teacher is to ask their students. A student is more likely to give straight opinions on how good a teacher is.

The cost of piano lessons varies immensely. If a teacher gives 30 minute, 45 minute, or 60 minute (etc) lessons, the price will vary. In my area, teachers charge between $10-$25 per half hour lesson...I'm sure in other areas, the price is more expensive.

If you really have a problem with the cost, maybe check out some local universities. If they have a piano studio, sometimes students from the Uni will tutor for cheap or free.

[piano_monkey]

There are many many and again MANY DIFFERENT TYPES OF TEACHERS AND PRICES such as my piano teacher (which i am only 11) is a very very very very good teacher and look she's making me a really good pianist but.... it costs a lot of cash 50.00 dollars per month that's just a 45 minute period hour is 65.00 but she is a quite famous not very famous and if you can try going to the teacher's recital because if you find out what some students play you can judge how good the piano teacher is

[dev]

There are many many and again MANY DIFFERENT TYPES OF TEACHERS AND PRICES such as my piano teacher (which i am only 11) is a very very very very good teacher and look she's making me a really good pianist but.... it costs a lot of cash 50.00 dollars per month that's just a 45 minute period hour is 65.00 but she is a quite famous not very famous and if you can try going to the teacher's recital because if you find out what some students play you can judge how good the piano teacher is

uh...english?