Education · 1 of 5
The path
Two different routes. Private teaching needs no paperwork at all. School teaching needs a degree and a state license.
- 1
High school
Grades 9 to 12
Play seriously. Band, orchestra, choir, jazz group, lessons, competitions. Music theory if your school offers it.
- 2
Start teaching beginners
Any time
Many teenagers teach a few younger students for pocket money. It is legal, it pays, and it is how you find out whether you like the work.
- 3
Bachelor's degree in music or music education
4 years
An audition is part of admission. Music education degrees include child development, conducting and classroom methods.
- 4
Student teaching and state license
1 semester
A semester in a real school classroom, plus your state's exams, which are usually Praxis subject and pedagogy tests.
- 5
Teach, then specialize
Ongoing
School music position, a private studio, or both. Optional professional certification through a teachers' association.