How to Become A Music Tutor

Steps to Become a Music Tutor

Step 1: Build strong skills on your chosen instrument

Start by building strong skills in one or more instruments or voice. Take regular lessons with an expert musician and practise daily. The stronger your musical base, the more you can give your students.

Step 2: Complete a Bachelor of Music or Music Education

Enrol in a Bachelor of Music (BMus) or Bachelor of Music Education (BMus Ed) at an Australian university. These three- to four-year AQF Level 7 degrees cover performance, theory, ear training, and teaching methods. VETASSESS lists them as the standard degree for this role (VETASSESS, 2024). Check your chosen university’s current course details for entry needs.

Step 3: Get hands-on teaching experience

Build teaching experience by tutoring friends or family members. Volunteer at a local music group or assist at a music school. Aim for at least 50 hours of teaching before working on your own. Many music education degrees include supervised teaching rounds.

Step 4: Apply for a Working with Children Check

Apply for a Working with Children Check (WWCC) in your state before teaching anyone under 18. The check is required in all Australian states and territories. Most checks take two to four weeks. Keep your WWCC up to date, as it must be renewed each period.

Step 5: Join a professional association and build your studio

Join the Australian Society for Music Education (ASME) or your state’s Music Teachers’ Association. Both offer workshops, learning events, and peer support. Then set your hourly rate, plan your lessons, and promote your services locally. A membership also builds trust when attracting new students.

A Music Tutor’s day involves planning, teaching, and listening. They pick exercises, pieces, and theory concepts that suit each student’s level. During lessons, they teach, show, and give feedback in real time. They set practice tasks to keep students moving forward. Beyond the lesson room, tutors get students ready for exams and recitals. They stay current by going to workshops and seminars. Many also run student shows so students can share their progress with an audience. It is a hands-on, creative role that keeps changing as students grow.

Music Tutors teach students at every level, from first-time learners to advanced musicians preparing for exams. Each day brings new wins and the joy of helping someone find their love of music.

• Planning programmes of study for students and groups, matching each student’s pace and goals.
• Preparing and presenting music theory material in clear, engaging ways.
• Showing students how to play, sing, or interpret music with confidence.
• Assigning practice tasks that challenge and inspire students at every level.
• Assessing students and giving honest, helpful feedback after each session.
• Revising lessons as students grow and as new teaching methods come along.
• Preparing students for AMEB exams, recitals, and competitions.
• Attending workshops and conferences to keep teaching skills sharp.
• Taking students to live music events for inspiration and learning.
• Putting on recitals and concerts that celebrate student progress.

• Strong performance skills in one or more instruments or voice
• Knowledge of music theory, ear training, and composition
• Ability to plan and deliver lessons for students of all ages and levels
• Patience and the ability to adapt to different learning styles
• Clear and encouraging communication
• Skills in assessing student progress and giving constructive feedback
• Lesson planning and curriculum design
• Preparation of students for examinations, recitals, and performances
• Knowledge of current music education practices and trends
• Organisation and time management for managing multiple students
• Ability to inspire and motivate students
• Commitment to ongoing professional development