HOW DO PIANO TEACHERS CHARGE?
The way piano teachers charge differ throughout. But generally, they tend to fall into 2 categories. Those who charge by nett hourly rates, and those who charge based on the grade the student is at.For those who charge by nett hourly rates, it could range from anything, say $60 an hour to more than $100 an hour. In this case, it doesn't matter if the student is at the beginner or advanced stage, the charges are the same as long as the hours are put in. However, most of these teachers do not take in students at the beginner level.
For teachers who charge monthly fees according to the level of the student, it usually starts at about $100+ per month at the beginner's level, increasing to more than $200 per month for a Grade 8 student.
There is no fixed guideline to say how much a teacher can charge, or how much a student should be paying. But generally, the fees are in line with "market sentiments". One could say that a teacher with a higher qualification charges higher than another with lower qualifications. This may or may not be true. (I know for a fact that there are teachers with lower qualifications than mine, who charge higher than me.)
When looking for a teacher, find out from a few teachers about their rates, have a conversation with them first and if you're comfortable with a particular teacher, just give that teacher a try. What is most important is not that the teacher charges much less or much higher than everyone else. The real issue is whether the teacher is the right fit for the student, and definitely vice versa.If you are only looking for a teacher with the lowest fees in town, be prepared that you will get someone who may not be that well-trained or committed in teaching you or your child. Many people often misunderstand that the beginner's level is the easiest to teach, hence the fees should be as low as possible. That is absolutely wrong. The foundation years (whether in life or in your musical journey) are the most important in shaping your musical future, so take great care in choosing a suitable teacher.
©
pianoforte@babeypaws 2007
The above article is written based on my own opinion and from my own experience, as a former music student and a current music teacher.
Do NOT reproduce any parts or whole parts of the article in any form or manner.