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Music Teachers

Education and Training Requirements

High School

If you are interested in becoming a music teacher, you probably are already taking voice lessons or are learning to play an instrument in high school. Participation in music classes, choral groups, bands, and orchestras is also good preparation for a music teaching career. Communication skills are also essential in teaching careers so be sure to take communications, speech, and writing classes.

Postsecondary Training

Like all musicians, music teachers spend years mastering their instruments or developing their voices. Private teachers need no formal training or licenses, but most have spent years studying with an experienced musician, either in a school or conservatory or through private lessons. Teachers in elementary schools and high schools must have at least a bachelor's degree in music education, experience working as a student teacher, and a state-issued teaching license. Approximately 630 conservatories, universities, and colleges offer bachelor's degrees in music education to qualify students for state certificates. The National Association of Schools of Music offers a directory of accredited music schools on its Web site, https://nasm.arts-accredit.org.

To teach music in colleges, schools of music, or in conservatories, you must have a graduate degree in music. Many teachers at this level also have doctorate degrees. However, very talented and well-known performers or composers are sometimes hired without any formal graduate training, but only a few people reach that level of fame.

Certification

Many colleges and universities offer undergraduate and graduate certificate programs in music education and general education. Programs typically last six months to a year and are available in online, in-person, and hybrid formats. Contact schools in your area for information about available programs.

Other Education or Training

The American String Teachers Association, Music Teachers National Association, National Association for Music Education, and The College Music Society provide continuing education webinars, classes, and workshops on music theory, using technology in the classroom, and other topics. Contact these organizations for more information.

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