what's a good age to start teaching at?

[imbetter]

I'd like to start teaching the piano. I'm pretty experienced and I feel I'm ready but I'm worried age might be an issue.


Thanks

[frank_48]

my teacher's 22, been teaching for 3 years, if that helps.

[db05]

My teacher had a teacher's license before enrolling in conservatory. She was 16. But I believe she continued her studies first.

Age shouldn't matter as long as you can teach.

[odd_wanderer]

Just be sure that you are experienced in the right areas for teaching.

Knowledge in music theory, interpretation, technique, etc. are probably required. After all, you probably don't want to ruin any student's ability to play.

Also, you should know how to teach/deal with people. Beating students over the head with books is usually considered inappropriate, even if said students ignore all of the notated dynamics in a piece (maybe you should though, with a soft book).

[vongoldschmitz]

I think if your realy young some might not trust your teaching skills in the first place.
But in general this is not about age.

What makes you worry?

[Bob]

As soon as you can.  The sooner, the better.

Why?  Because you get real teaching experience.  It does help to have someone to go to to ask questions though.  Your own teacher or maybe a forum like this one.  I could see... maybe 12 on the youngest side?  14-15 yes.  That way you know whether you like teaching, you have some incomce/part-time job, and if you go into music teaching later you'll have all that experience behind you.

Think of it like practicing.  The sooner you start, the better.


As far as the parents, if they're willing to pay you, take advantage of it.  Maybe you charge less because you have no experience?  But the parents will be looking for a deal and probably aren't looking for the world's greatest teacher -- Why would they if they were willing to pay someone with no experience?  But you teach a few kids, learn, and after awhile it's not so bad.

Do expect to put some time and thought into it though.  You'll probably spend as much time preparing for a lesson as actually teaching it.  At least I would think.  But after a few students... You know how to do the first lesson pretty well by then. 

[imbetter]

I just want the money lol

[Bob]

Nothing wrong with that.  Just don't screw the student over and mess them up for life.  (No pressure. )  You will learn a lot, and some things you can only learn by working with a student.  I say go for it.

You'll also discover what things you're willing and not willing to put up with along the way.  Fun, fun, fun.