Choosing a music tutor for your child
LikeThe fact that your child has expressed a desire to learn music is very good news: music is a creative art that allows them to express themselves freely. In addition, they can acquire some skills that will help them grow, such as having a better memory, better concentration or knowing how to work in a group. So, don't hesitate to sign them up for some good music lessons! But how do you make sure you are choosing the right music tutor for your child? If you are interested in this topic, here are some points to consider in order to select the best tutor for your child.
Where to look for music tutors
Choosing a music tutor, or any other subject, is a very personal step. If the lessons work, you ensure that your child learns, having fun in a creative and enjoyable environment. So you can search a number of sites to find the perfect music tutor:
- Online tutor job boards and portals: If you don't care about qualifications, but want someone creative and responsible, look at tutor job boards. There are some online portals where a lot of talent is concentrated. You may be able to talk to the tutor first to make sure they are the right one, so don't miss the chance to meet the right tutor! Some of these tutors, if they are close by, may even offer to give private tuition in music, rather than doing the lessons online. Explore all options until the student's needs are met.
- Tuition centres: Some tuition centres and music schools offer the opportunity for private tuition. However, the choice of tutors is much more limited, so you are not sure that you will find someone who can fully understand your child's needs. You should also bear in mind that going to a tuition centre means that you cannot agree on conditions and timetables. Finally, be prepared to invest in travel expenses.
- Ads: Thousands of ads are posted on social media every day. Many of these postings are from professionals offering their services. If you have already searched for music lessons for your child, keep an eye on the adverts you come across: they may contain your ideal tutor.
Choose music lessons according to the style they want to learn
Another point to consider is the style of music your child wants to learn. This matters a lot, because when it comes to choosing the best music tutor, you should pay attention to the type of music they teach. Otherwise, you may be choosing the wrong teacher. Some of the most common musical styles are:
- Jazz: This type of music is one of the most creative types of music, as some of it is based on improvisation. By studying it, your child will develop their creativity, as well as many other qualities that music in general brings. To find a good jazz tutor, look for the most creative and spontaneous people; these traits are often part of the character of jazz tutors.
- Classical music: as the name suggests, a great classic. This type of music also awakens creativity, as well as providing musical and historical culture. People who teach this style of music have a predilection for rule and order. Look in the tutor pools of conservatoires and tuition centres, as classical music is often taught in these places.
- Rock: This type of music, which is not so traditional, is in fact very popular. Not only because it is home to great artists and arouses lively feelings, but also because it has a great variety of sub-styles. Therefore, there are plenty of people who will be able to teach this style of music.
Meet the music tutor
If your child has already decided on the style they want to follow, it's time to get started! But first of all, it's vital to choose the right professional. If you've already seen that private tuition or online tuition is your child's thing, then select the right music tutor:
- Ask for an interview: first, make a list of music tutors who fit your child's personality and needs. Then, a very important next step is to ask the tutor for an interview. This will give you the opportunity to ask about their experience, whether he or she has any training or what style they prefer to teach. This way you will be able to assess whether or not the tutor is a good match for your child.
- Check the opinions of other students: testimonials shine when they are positive, but are a visible stain if they tend to be negative. Since you don't want someone for your child who doesn't know how to teach, doesn't understand the students or doesn't have enough experience to teach, be sure to read the opinions of other students. This way you will know whether or not it is worth contacting that tutor.
- Ask for a first trial lesson: this is often the litmus test to see if your child and the future teacher would get along well in music lessons. If the teacher agrees to give a free trial lesson, it shows an interest in teaching your child and helping them on their musical journey. In addition, your child will be able to see if they get on well with the music tutor or if, on the contrary, they did not feel comfortable.