It’s been several months since I posted about non-music cashflow, and with the earlier posts as a foundation (part 1, 2 and 3), I can now move into the meat of this subject and talk about the options you have to make cash. First up, teaching – yeah, I know it’s sorta music, but it’s also a perfect money maker for you.
At one point or another, most people want to learn about music. And with your talents and presence as an artist within your community, you are in the perfect position to assist them with their quest and make some money too. And whether you want to teach 5, 45 or 65 year olds, teaching can work with your schedule and grow you as a musician too.
Unlike other jobs, full or part time, you don’t need to find 4 to 8 consecutive hours to teach lessons. Just use those 30 or 60 minute increments that are typical to living as a musician. This works especially well if your students come to you. But even if you have to travel, you can pick the where and when that works best.
You also get to choose how often you’ll get paid and how much to charge. I know several people who charge by the month and I suggest you do too. This keeps your student motivated to show up while ensuring that you have an income you can count on. How much you charge will depend on the local rate, but consider using your rates to manage the quantity and quality of students. If you want a lot of beginner students, use low prices to fill your calendar. If you’d prefer to teach a handful of advanced musicians, charge an appropriate fee.
The greatest benefit of teaching, however, is the experience. They say that those that can’t do, teach. That may be true, but you’ll be stunned how much YOU learn when you have to dissect, analyze and explain – in understandable terms – the way you play that hot lick. Teaching is a powerful education for the teacher. It will make you a better player/writer/artist.
And how much money is THAT worth?
