Music Majors' Attitudes Toward Private Lesson Teaching After Graduation

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to survey current music students across degree programs and levels on their attitudes toward teaching private music lessons. Results showed few differences between undergraduate and graduate students. Across degrees, educators and performers were most alike on statements about wanting to teach, liking the idea of watching students learn, and looking forward to being better teachers themselves. They differed in that educators focused more on correct notes than expressive elements and were more willing to take on students who are less skilled or able, teach improvisation, and focus on music reading skills. Performers hoped for students who were self-motivated. Educators focused less on teaching for money, connecting teaching to their own playing, and saw themselves as less likely to give up teaching to do other things. These data suggest that music majors across degrees and levels see a need for training to teach.