What does a music teacher do?
Music teachers educate students in musical knowledge, performance, and appreciation. They teach skills such as reading music, rhythm, theory, composition, and instrumental or vocal technique. Music teachers plan lessons, assess student progress, and support the development of creativity and confidence through music.Music teacher jobs can be found in primary and secondary schools, specialist music schools, private studios, community organisations, and tertiary settings. Some music teachers also combine classroom teaching with performance, composition, or music direction roles.
Is a career as a music teacher right for me?
A career in music education may suit you if you enjoy teaching and have a strong passion for music. Skills and attributes important for this role include:
- strong communication and interpersonal skills
- musical proficiency in one or more instruments or voice
- patience and adaptability
- creativity and enthusiasm
- organisation and lesson planning skills
- the ability to motivate and support learners.
How to become a music teacher
If you are exploring how to become a music teacher, the typical pathway in Australia involves completing an approved teaching qualification with a music specialisation, followed by teacher registration. This usually includes completing a music teacher degree in education or a relevant music discipline combined with a teaching qualification.
Teacher registration requirements vary by state and territory and may include supervised teaching placements, background checks, and ongoing professional development. School based music teachers must meet the registration standards set by the relevant teacher regulatory authority.
Every journey to study is individual, and there are several pathways into music teaching depending on your prior study and career goals.
View UniSQ’s Education and Teaching and Creative Arts degrees.
Average salary per week
$2166
Future demand
Stable
Industries
Related careers
Source: yourcareer.gov.au
© Commonwealth of Australia
Music teacher FAQ's
What are the key music teacher qualifications?
Music teacher qualifications typically include a bachelor's degree in education with a music focus, or a music degree followed by a postgraduate teaching qualification. Registration with the appropriate teacher regulatory authority is required to teach in schools.
What music teacher degree can I study?
A music teacher degree may be a Bachelor of Education specialising in music, or a Bachelor of Music combined with a teaching qualification. UniSQ offers pathways that support students aiming to teach music in school and community settings.
What music teacher jobs are available?
Music teacher jobs include classroom teaching roles in primary and secondary schools, instrumental music instruction, private tuition, ensemble direction, and community-based music education roles. With experience, some teachers move into curriculum leadership or specialist education roles.
How long does it take to become a music teacher?
A bachelor's teaching degree typically takes around four years of full-time study. Students who complete a music degree first may then undertake a postgraduate teaching qualification, which can add additional study time depending on the pathway chosen.
Is music teaching a good career?
Music teaching is a rewarding career for those passionate about education and the arts. Music teachers play an important role in developing creativity, cultural understanding, and confidence in students across a wide range of learning environments.
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