I am a pretty advance player and been playing violin for almost 10 years and lately I've started to attract a few people that want me to give them lessons on violin. I've been classically trained and have a thorough study of the instrument and music theory. I'm certainly not the best out there but I can't be the worst, yet I feel I wouldn't make a great teacher. I see this as a great opportunity to teach what I love doing and making money what I love doing but what worries me is not giving the teaching what the student deserves. What if I challenge a beginner too much or I don't challenge one enough? Where do I start with a student? It doesn't help I'm not great with young kids and apparently I have scared some kids away from me without even realizing it. Are there any books out there that instruct how to teach? Any tips someone could provide? Anything? Maybe that I am not even fit to be teacher....

Teaching an instrument is like playing an instrument: The more you practice, the better you get. If you're an adult with a degree in music, and you feel that you'd like to help others improve, you should give it a try. Start with a just a few students until you get your feet wet, and ask your own teacher for advice as you go.

Hi! I read your post and I think I understand what you are saying. I have an idea for you. Why don't you start teaching me? I'm an advanced beginner and I'm not easily scared or intimidated. So you can use me (by teaching me) in understanding yourself and in the way improving your technique. What say? Interested in adopting a student just for you own betterment? Just for the love of it?

Hi Saorise1992

You'd be surprised at how much you learn on the job while you teach. The most important thing is to get in there and do it, and to play your lesson beforehand.

I like to structure my lessons, 50% technique/scales and 50% repertoire/pieces. That helps the student be mentally prepared for hte lesson and then they also structure their practice at home in the same way.

I have some articles on teaching the violin naturally and easily at www.freeviolin.com that might help.

Good luck
Amy
www.freeviolin.com