How to find a piano teacher

Choosing the right teacher shapes how inspiring lessons can be. Here is how to find qualified candidates and evaluate fit during an introductory call or trial lesson.

Where to find piano teachers

Before you can evaluate a teacher, you need to find candidates. Start with these resources:

• Piano teacher registries: Sites like the Steinway Teacher Registry let you search by location and see credentials.
• State and regional associations: Some states have active piano teacher associations with member directories, though coverage varies. New York State's association, for example, has limited listings.
• Online search: A simple "piano teachers near me" search will surface local instructors with websites and online profiles.
• Word of mouth: Ask friends, neighbors, or school music teachers for recommendations.

Once you have a few candidates, use the questions and criteria below to narrow your options.

1) Check training and pedagogy

Ask about formal training, ongoing study, and the teacher's pedagogical approach. Do they have conservatory or education credentials? Do they stay active as performers, composers, or arrangers? What is their teaching philosophy?

2) Understand how lessons might be structured

Teachers vary widely in their approach. Some focus intensely on classical repertoire and conservatory-style technique, preparing students for auditions and serious study. Others take a more casual approach, emphasizing enjoyment and flexibility. Many offer both paths depending on the student's goals.

Think about what you're looking for. Are you interested in deep classical training, or do you want to learn piano for theater, to play pop music in a band, or simply for fun at holidays and gatherings? Different students have different reasons for learning piano, and the best teachers can adapt their lesson structure to match. At Scarsdale Piano School, we offer both intense pre-conservatory level training for students who want it and more casual study for those with other goals.

3) Ask about communication and scheduling

Take note of how the teacher handles logistics. How do they manage rescheduling, weather days, and travel? Is Zoom an option when someone is sick? Logistical disorganization can make lessons difficult to maintain, so clear communication about these details matters.

Also clarify whether the teacher works with adults, children, or both, and what musical styles they specialize in. Some teachers focus exclusively on jazz or classical, while rock, pop, and blues instruction can be harder to find. Understanding the teacher's areas of focus helps you determine if they're the right match for your musical interests.

4) Discuss repertoire and goals

Be clear about what you want to achieve and realistic about the time it takes. If you want to play Beethoven's Emperor Concerto, are you prepared to dedicate years to get there? If you want to play a Broadway song, do you want the full arrangement or a simpler melody you can learn in weeks?

A good teacher helps you align your goals with reality. The technical elements that make playing Beethoven what it is can be brought into whatever song you're working on, whether that's classical literature or a pop tune. Look for teachers who can meet you where you are and help you manage expectations while building toward your aspirations. Custom arrangements at different levels of complexity can help students progress at their own pace, whether that means learning a simple melody or committing to mastering the full piece. These arrangmenets can be hard to find, but we consider a key part of our curriculum at Scarsdale Piano School.

5) Consider logistics and lesson format

Some students prefer going to a studio or music school for lessons, while others prioritize convenience. In-home lessons mean you learn on your own piano and don't have to travel, which can make practice easier to maintain. Zoom lessons offer additional flexibility. Think about what setup works best for your schedule and learning style.

Questions to bring to the intro call

• How do you choose the first pieces for a new student?
• Can you describe a typical lesson?
• Can you accommodate audition prep, NYSSMA, or school concerts?
• What styles and repertoire do you specialize in?
• Do you work with adults, children, or both?

Red flags to watch for

• Inflexible teaching philosophy: Only one method book or style offered, regardless of the student's interests or goals.
• Disorganized communication: No discussion of scheduling, cancellations, or practice expectations. Logistical disorganization makes lessons difficult for students and families and is often not worth the hassle.