How to Find Piano Lessons

Learning to play the piano gives children more than the satisfaction of accompanying family as they sing holiday songs. Studying piano also can help to teach a child discipline and responsibility. Daily practice and completion of assignments requires dedication, and caring for a piano and sheet music can help to increase responsibility. Many kids express an interest in taking piano lessons; some parents require it. No matter who comes up with the idea, the following can help parents find lessons in their area geared toward kids.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Visit your local music store. Music stores often offer music lessons or can direct you to a local teacher who specializes in teaching piano to kids. Many teachers who offer lessons in music store studios have credentials for teaching music. Be sure to ask if the teacher is credentialed.

2. Look for advertisements at your local library and other kid-friendly areas. You often can find advertisements like fliers and business cards for piano teachers posted on community bulletin boards. If you find a teacher in this way, be sure to ask for references to contact to confim the teacher's trustworthiness and experience.

3. Look in a local publication of family activities, which sometimes is offered as a supplement to the local newspaper. Advertisements in these may even include coupons for a free trial lesson. Take advantage of a sample session before signing your child up for lessons with a new teacher.

4. Call your local elementary school's music department. The director may be able to pass on the name and number of a well-qualified teacher to you. If the teacher is affiliated with the school, chances are that she has passed a background check and has teaching credentials.

5. Ask around. Ask other mothers in your playgroup or in your child's class if they know of a piano teacher who works well with children. Good music teachers tend to have a wonderful reputation among their students and their parents.

6. Interview a potential teacher before signing up for lessons. Ask if your child may have a trial lesson before making a commitment. Carefully observe the surroundings where the lessons are given before you leave your child with the teacher.

Tips & Warnings

• Many piano teachers require students to have a piano to enroll in lessons. If a piano isn't in your budget or can't fit in your space, find out if a keyboard would be a suitable alternative.
• Some piano teachers give lessons in their students' homes. Ask if the teacher has a studio or if he teaches on location.
• Be sure your piano teacher has an open-door policy. You should be able to observe your child's lessons.

Resources

• Canadian Study - Kids Who Study Piano Have a Higher IQ