As a freelance music teacher, you may have encountered various misconceptions about the profession. In this blog post, I will debunk some of the most common myths surrounding freelance music teaching and reveal the truths behind them. Let’s dive in!
Myth #1: You Have to Work Evenings if You're a Freelance Teacher
Truth: This is a prevalent myth that many aspiring music teachers believe. While it’s true that some freelance music teachers choose to work evenings to accommodate students' schedules, it is not a requirement. One of the greatest advantages of being a freelance teacher is the flexibility it offers. You can set your own hours and create a schedule that best suits you and your family.Personally, I have structured my teaching hours to avoid evening work altogether. There are plenty of opportunities to teach during the day, especially with homeschooled students, retirees, or adult learners who have flexible schedules. Remember, as a freelance music teacher, you are in control of your time!
Myth #2: You Can't Make a Living Teaching Freelance Music Unless You Work Crazy Long Hours
Truth: This myth often discourages talented musicians from pursuing a career in teaching. The reality is that you can absolutely make a comfortable living as a freelance music teacher without working excessively long hours.The key is to structure your offerings effectively. By diversifying your services, setting appropriate rates, and managing your time wisely, you can create a sustainable income while working reasonable hours. In my case, I maintain a thriving teaching practice with only 15-20 hours of work per week. Of course, there are exceptions—like concert weeks when everyone in the music world tends to put in extra hours—but that’s part of the excitement!
Myth #3: Freelance Teaching Only Works if Your Spouse Holds the Insurance
Truth: While having a spouse with employer-provided insurance can be beneficial, it is not essential for successful freelance teaching. Many self-employed individuals can secure health coverage through various options. In my family’s case, both my husband and I are self-employed, and we utilize health sharing programs (currently this specific one but we have used others in the past and saved a lot!) as an affordable alternative to traditional insurance. It’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons of different health coverage options based on your family's specific needs.
Being a freelance music teacher allows you to create a career that fits your life rather than conforming to traditional job structures. By debunking these myths, I hope to encourage more talented musicians to explore the rewarding path of freelance teaching. Join us in the Freelance Music Teachers group on FB and stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll tackle more myths and share additional insights into this fulfilling career!
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