Many people "shop" for a piano teacher by the price of lessons.  Often the only question is "What do you charge?"  In these times when stores offer "do it yourself" books on learning to play the piano, using colored keys, or "play by the number", perhaps the first question should followed by "What will I get for my money?"

The price of weekly 30 minute piano lessons in Southern California can be as high as $45, or more, per lesson, depending on the experience and qualifications of the teacher.  Unless a student is already an accomplished pianist, however, wishing to study with a concert artist, it may not be necessary to pay $45 per lesson.  There are teachers who charge less, of course. 

An important fact to keep in mind when looking for a piano teacher, however, is that the cheapest teacher is not usually the best teacher.  Teachers who have years of training and experience are not usually the cheapest -- but frequently they are the best.  Their time and experience are well worth the cost. 

The things to look for in a teacher should be -- 

1)  How much teaching experience do they have?

2)  What kind of education they have?

3)  Have they received honors and awards for musical accomplishments?

4)  Do they have a personality that is compatible with yours?

5)  Does the teacher provide a well-equipped dedicated teaching studio? 

6)  Can the teacher take a student all the way from a beginner's level to advanced piano?

7)  Will the student receive private lessons, with individual attention from the teacher, or will the student will be in a class with others, with varying ability levels?

8)  Does the teacher work for a music store, whose primary goal is to sell instruments?

9)  Is instruction offered on a wide selection of instruments?  If so, you may not receive the level of professionalism and attention that you need.

All of these components go into the pricing of lessons.

Students who take lessons from teachers who offer the cheapest prices often do not learn the basics of playing the piano properly, nor do they learn to enjoy music.  Learning to play the piano requires making a commitment -- and when the learning process has been faulted by a teacher who is below par, who teaches "short cuts", it often takes twice as long to re-learn and re-train a student -- if, indeed, that student can be motivated to continue studying piano at all.

One of the best ways to locate a teacher is to go on line and search for sites that list piano teachers in your area or zip code.  There are several such sites.  They will usually give a list of names and contact information.  Contact several teachers, and ask for one-on-one interviews.  There is usually no charge for the initial interview. 

Ask about the musical training and background of each teacher.  See if the teacher is compatible with you or your child.  Look at their studio.  Ask questions about teaching style and technique, as well as expectations that they have of their students.  Ask for references.

When you have selected a teacher, be willing to make a commitment.  Don't take a few lessons and quit.  Learning to play the piano takes time.

Music lessons with a teacher are usually once a week.  The key to success is what takes place between lessons, at home, with regular practice times and support of family.