Finding a Piano Teacher

How to Find a Piano Teacher

August 10, 2010

Ask the Piano Teacher: Finding a Piano Teacher

Question:

I am a middle-school student and I really want to learn piano. I've called around to local music stores and the piano lessons are really expensive! We can't afford them. How can I find an inexpensive piano teacher so I can take lessons?

Answer:

Hi there!

First of all, it's really great that you want to take piano lessons. One of the things you need to know about lessons is that the amount teachers charge depends on their experience. So, you'll pay a lot for private lessons with the professional pianist who plays with the symphony, but you'll pay less for a teacher who is just out of college. Music stores usually take a percentage of the teacher's income for each lesson from them, so lessons can be more expensive there than from someone teaching out of her home.

Also, have a talk with your parents about your desire to take piano lessons. Even if you find a very inexpensive teacher in your area, lessons are still an investment, and it's a lot of money. Perhaps you can talk with your parents about how you will be diligent with your practice (even find a time in your day and schedule it - the same time every day works great), how you will help a bit extra around the house... maybe even share what you learn at your lessons with your mom or your younger sibling!

Finding a Piano Teacher

How to find a piano teacher near you, that's less expensive? First, ask the band and choir and general music teachers at your school. They are usually connected to the local music community and know other teachers in the area. Sometimes school teachers also teach privately (my first private lessons in middle school were from my band director). Many high school students who are looking to be music majors also start teaching private lessons in high school. I did! That would be a great way for you to get lessons at a very reasonable rate.

If you have a local college, that's another great place to ask. Students often teach, both as a part-time job and for experience! Another good place to ask is at your local church. Church pianists many times are private piano teachers and are often really versatile piano players -- playing both classical music and playing by chords and improvising.

In the meantime, when you find piano teachers, you can look online for free piano lessons. There are quite a lot of really good beginner piano lessons on YouTube as well as on pianists' websites -- do a Google search for free piano lessons. Lots of times people give away lessons in the hope that you'll buy their course, but you don't have to do that! :-) You can get started learning piano and really get inspired by other pianists out there.

I hope this is helpful. Best of luck finding a piano teacher you love and learning to play piano!

Best,

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