Work-From-Home Job Spotlight: Piano Teacher

Each Thursday, I’m highlighting a work-from-home job or business.


Job Description: A piano teacher teaches students of all ages and abilities the fundamentals of playing the instrument.

Education: A bachelor’s degree or music certification is preferred.

Skills: Enthusiasm and knowledge of piano.

Job outlook: The U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) finds that “employment of self-enrichment education teachers is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations, and job prospects should be favorable. … Employment of self-enrichment education teachers [of which piano teachers are] is expected to increase over the 2008–18 period by 32 percent, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. … Job prospects should be generally favorable in the coming decade, as increasing demand and high turnover create many opportunities.” Check out the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook for more details.

Possible employers: Neighbors and friends are a good place to start. Local private and public schools might need supplemental piano teachers, too.

Preparation: Update your music credentials, if applicable. Ensure that your home is conducive to in-home instruction or find a neutral place, such as music school or church that you could hold lessons.

Get your foot in the door: To get the word out, put up a simple website, advertise your services via flyers in schools, retail locations and other neighborhood venues. Consider offering lessons at a local charity or school auction.

Testimony: Andrea in Helena, Mont., spends six hours a week teaching piano. “I love being my own boss, setting my own schedule and rate of pay,” she says. “My schedule works well for my kids’ nap times and students’ availability. … But sometimes, it is awkward when I have to remind student’s parents to pay their monthly tuition,” she further admits.

Until next time,

Sarah