Where to Teach, pt. III – The Upside of Music Stores and Schools

     In 20 plus years of teaching guitar I have taught in a wide variety of situations and found each to have its own set of unique challenges, benefits and pitfalls. Some might say, “I’d never teach there” but, don’t dismiss a potential revenue stream on face value. This month I’ll continue on the “Where to Teach” series by going through the positive aspects of teaching at a music store or school. 

     A music store is a retail business which also offers instrument lessons taught from in-house studios and a “music school” is specific to teaching private/group lessons. There are several advantages in teaching from either a store or school: 

1. No Advertising - you do not need to place ads or rely on word of mouth; the physical storefront, reputation or location is what brings students in.

2. Students – over time you will most likely have as many students as you want and chances are they may ask you to teach additional days.

3. Studio – the store/school supplies a place to teach and most also equip the studios with music stands and amplifiers (some may not).

4. Central Location – all your students are at one location and come to you.

5. Supplies – most anything your students may need (tuners, method books, strings) can be purchased on the spot if you work at a music store or the school sells supplies.

6. Recital Space – some stores/schools may even have space to host recitals for teachers and their students.

7. Rules: the establishment may have its own rules regarding student absences and make-ups.

8. Discounts – many music stores often provide teachers with discounts on purchases.

9. Lesson Rate – in many cases the school/store sets the rate for lessons.

10. Getting Paid – each store/school operates differently, but if you are fortunate they will handle collecting money for lessons and give you a check on a weekly, bi-weekly or monthly basis.

     Have I missed anything? Please feel free to comment!