A qualified musician can obtain music teaching jobs outside of schools or within the school system. Teaching music in a music shop often requires no formal education or training, but you must demonstrate an ability to play the instrument well and understand music theory. If you plan on teaching within the school system, you will need to earn an undergraduate degree and become certified to teach to be considered for music teaching jobs. Once you have completed the appropriate steps, you will need to research several music teaching jobs to find the one that is right for you.
Look for music teaching jobs that will have you working in a department that is well-funded if possible; this means instruments, teaching aids, books, and other materials will be available to you to help you do your job more effectively. Be sure to visit the schools you are considering working at to meet current music instructors as well as students. Try to gauge their feedback of the music program as a whole, and ask the teachers the best and worst things about working at that particular school. The more questions you ask, the better understanding you will have about how the job will fit your teaching style and needs.
Make sure to research each institution to find out if it is accredited. Working at an accredited school will look better on a resumé and will ensure the school is functioning properly and providing a high quality education to its students. Do not be afraid to consider music teaching jobs at developing schools or underperforming schools, as this is an opportunity to have a hand in building a music program from the ground up, which can be a significant amount of work but also very satisfying and rewarding. Know what kind of school you are considering teaching at before accepting any jobs.
Figure out if the music teaching jobs you are considering match your strengths and career goals. If, for example, you are strong in woodwinds and brass, be sure the program has adequate support for these areas. Remember that you will need to teach areas in which you are not necessarily an expert, so it is best to be prepared for such challenges. Consider the salary of the position in relation to how many classes you will be required to teach, what other responsibilities you will have within the school and program, and what kinds of career advancement opportunities will be available to you in the long run.
