Piano Tutor Talks About Teaching Keyboard
We asked one of our most experienced piano teachers Ijeoma Erica Mbubaegbu about her thoughts on teaching and using My Piano Lessons resources. Here is what she said; Why did you initially join My Piano Lessons? I wanted to be a piano teacher because I enjoy playing the piano and needed help to get started. I was fed up with office work, volunteering, sending out CVs, and attending interviews and fed up with being tied down to temporary contracts when in work. Most of all I hated when my integrity was compromised, office politics and the daily commute to London.
What have My Piano Lessons done for you?
They helped me to get a good reputation which included, letting people know that I can teach them piano and setting up a website for me. My manager at the music centre found my credentials online and offered me a job. I now work at the music centre part time and go to other people’s houses to teach them piano when I am not at the music centre. MPL helped me to tell people that I could supply what they were demanding which was music and piano lessons.
How many students do you teach?
I have approximately 40 students including private students and students at a music centre. I am fully booked and cannot take any more on. I sometimes refer potential students who come to me first to try other teachers who I know and trust because I have such a demanding workload. Due to my demanding workload I now only teach people who live in Bromley with the exception of one who I just couldn’t say goodbye to. When I first started teaching piano I didn’t have the luxury to choose whom I travelled to but now I do.
What’s the best thing about teaching piano?
The best thing about teaching piano is seeing students reach their piano playing potential. I feel proud when my students pass their piano graded exams. Some passed after not doing so well the first time round and others passed with merit and distinction. I felt the proudest for the kid who passed his graded exam second time round. He made me very happy. I feel happy when my students tell me that I am an awesome teacher. It’s a great job if you are maternal. The kids are like my own.
What 3 simple bits of advice would you give to a new piano teacher?
1. Join a piano or music society, network and make friends with like minded people.
2. Get a piano teacher to teach you even if you are a piano teacher.
3. Remember to organise your timetable, schedule or roster so that you have a day off and a good work life balance.
How much do you earn?
Approximately £50 per day.
Would you advise other musicians to join us?
Definitely, yes of course.
Ijeoma Erica Mbubaegbu.
My Piano Lessons Tutor.
