When looking for a Music Teacher, you'll find lots of options. Some teach in their home, some use classrooms in a school, some at the music store, and some will even come to you. Rates for lessons will vary greatly. Education and experience will also vary.

First, don't make any assumptions. Some of the best teachers I know are the product of their great teachers, and not a big name school.

Second, don't let rates be your only guide. While your budget for music lessons is important, the highest paid teacher you can afford is not necessarily the best teacher.

Here are some steps you can take to get a great music teacher:

1. Take the time to meet the teacher before you start lessons. When meeting potential students, I like to interview them about their goals and their experiences. But my favorite interviews are when they ask me questions, too.
2. Ask them about the local music community. Do they participate in a local orchestra or church group? Do they perform on a regular basis? Can you hear them play something? I currently play in the local community orchestra at one of the universities. It's a great place to meet other musicians, and we play three concerts a year, so we're always learning new pieces.
3. Find out if they host student recital at least once a year. One of the greatest experiences playing music is recording. No musician should ever be without the opportunity. As a teacher, I like to try to put together at least one student recital a year, and I often will play in the recital myself.
4. Find out about local opportunities for beginning musicians. If you're a parent, you'll want to find out about local youth orchestras. If you're an adult beginner, there may be a volunteer community orchestra you can be a part of.
5. Find out if you can talk to other students the teacher has worked with. A great way to learn about a teacher is to talk to her other students. As long as I have permission from the student and/or their parents, I am more than willing to share their names. I also offer a referral program to current students to encourage them to talk about their music lessons.

Every teacher will have different theories and practices in their teaching. The best fit is when you find one that fits your beliefs and ideas on what music lessons should be about. Take the time to get to know a teacher as much as you can before starting lessons. Then, commit to being the best student you can be and you'll get along great.

Most importantly, remember to have fun in your lessons. Learning anything is hard work, but music lessons don't have to be a drag. Be open to letting your teacher share their passion for music with you!