Becoming a successful music teacher doesn’t just happen overnight – it takes years of hard work! So it makes sense that you’d want to list all of your achievements, qualifications and experience in your teacher bio. However, that’s not always the best way to communicate to students who you are.
So, how do you strike the right balance between education, experience, personality and teaching style? Does the image you want to present as a teacher come through when you read it?
Here are some helpful do’s and don’ts for crafting the perfect teacher bio:
DO Summarize your professional qualifications – New families want to know you know what you’re talking about. Provide a brief overview of your education and highlight only the essentials. This lets them know at a glance what your musical background is.
DON’T Just write a list of all your qualifications – Keep the industry and technical jargon to a minimum. Potential new students might be overwhelmed, confused or even intimidated by a list of degrees and certifications they aren’t familiar with.
DO Make your bio about your students – Yes, students and families want to make sure you’re qualified. However, they also want to know their needs are being met. Will students learn theory using fun games? Do you take an individualized approach with each student? Focus on how they will benefit from your lessons.
DON’T Write to a vague audience – You know your students, so make sure your bio speaks to them. If you teach a variety of instruments and only talk about your piano experience, you won’t be getting through to students who want to learn violin. If your students are mostly teenagers, including your techniques of using nursery rhymes to teach theory won’t resonate.
DO Update your bio – Have you started a new certification course? Booked an exciting new gig? If they’re relevant, include them! Show how you continue to learn and develop as a teacher. As a result, students will be inspired to learn and develop with you.
DON’T Write an essay – Families don’t want to scroll through paragraphs and paragraphs to find out who you are as a teacher. Keep it concise, and only include relevant information.
Take a look at your existing teacher bio and think about how it comes across to a prospective new family.
Instead of “I hold a Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate of Music Degree in vocal performance from Berklee College of Music where I studied with Professor ABC, and I also attend various conferences as a member of NATS,” try something like “I have a doctorate degree in vocal performance from Berklee College of Music, and over 10 years of experience teaching piano. I work with students of all ages and levels and love incorporating fun games and activities into lessons.”
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