How to Pick a Cello Teacher

Music lessons advance your abilities beyond playing in a group or reading music theory books. The cello, in particular, is a complicated instrument that requires special attention and instruction. Music teachers vary significantly in their education, skill level, performance training and experience, and personalities. Use the following instructions to pick the right cello teacher for you or your child.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Gather Potential Cello Teacher Names

1. Call your local music store and ask for cello teacher recommendations. Find a local musical instrument store and get to know the employees. Locate a music stores that has access to the local classical music scene.
2. Ask local high school music directors who teaches the cellists in the school orchestra.
3. Check local college music departments and ask if any graduate cello students or instructors teach private lessons.
4. Contact local symphonies and orchestras to find out if any cellists teach private lessons.
5. Set up meetings with your list of recommended teachers, preferably at their lesson location.

Interviewing and Choosing a Cello Teacher

6. Ask the cello teacher what they charge per lesson, and how they accept payments.
7. Determine how you (or the student) purchase necessary cello supplies such as rosin, endpins, strings and sheet music. Ask if the teacher has a discount to pass on to their students.
8. Find out how many of the teacher's past students continue playing cello beyond high school. This indicates how well the teacher motivates the student and creates long-term talent.
9. Engage the teacher in conversation about teaching styles, and get a feel for their interpersonal communication style.
10. Choose your cello teacher based on how satisfied you are with their answers to the above questions, and potential long-term, successful relationship with the teacher.