Music Teacher
Music and Conducting
Requirements
Just like any other career, being a music teacher has requirements. In order to teach grades K-12, you must need to complete a certification program and meet state licensing requirements. There are music education programs at a Bachelor's level which offers courses in music theory and methods of teaching music as well as general instruction on working with kids and teens. Most schools require applicants to have a Bachelor's degree in music with two years in music theory and ear training as well as education courses. There are also a lot of skills needed to be a music teacher. One skill/ability needed is that you have to be able to internalize basic rhythms and the pulse of any song. Another skill you need is to be able to understand basic elements of theory. Also you have to be able to compose, harmonize, and play by ear.
Why?
Music is something I love. I have been a musician since fourth grade and I never plan on leaving it. Performing music is a good feeling, though some pieces of music I have played can be boring, others are intense and cool. I am currently in symphonic band and wind ensemble. I also do indoor drumline and marching band, which are definitely my two favorite things. I am a percussionist (AKA: Drummer), for marching band and Indoor I march the tenors. When I first heard the ring/tone of the tenors my freshmen year I made it my goal to become good, I accomplished my goal.
A Day of a Music Teacher
As a teacher, you may have extra duties such as lunch duty or hallway monitoring. Just as any other staff in the building you also have to attend meetings which can occur before and/or after school. Although there are seven periods in a day, you may only teach five or six. You also have a planning period. Depending on the school, you may have daily after school responsibilities such as pit practice, marching band, and more.
FAQs
What is the salary in Pennsylvania?
Answer- $44,008 Annually
What might people not know about this career?
Answer- Very little of the job is actually teaching unless it's a class such as music theory or guitar class. You may also have a lot of paperwork such as grading homework, making schedules, organizing music, etc. And of course, there are the situations where you need to discipline.
What is the job outlook?
Answer- Over the past five years it has improved but it is still not great.
Are there possibilities of job advancement?
Answer- Usually there are no promotions available.