A passion and enthusiasm to share music with others are two important prerequisites for undertaking a music teaching course. Possessing these will give you the impetus to learn and focus on the course material. If you can already read and play musical instruments, you will benefit from prior knowledge and find the course easier. If you don't already know, learn how to read music and understand basic music theory such as scales and timing. Taking a music course yourself is the best way to achieve this. You will need to have a high school diploma in music in order to apply for a music teaching course.
There are two different ways to become a music teacher. First, you can complete a bachelor's of education degree and then specialize in music by using a diploma in music from a college. Alternatively, you can enroll in a music education teaching program. This is a specialized teaching course that includes a single subject credential that certifies you to teach music. However, both courses educate you in the skills and techniques required for a teacher without being music-specific. Therefore, either route enables you to be an accredited music teacher once completed.
Log onto the Internet and find a music teaching course that suits you. For example, Educationdegree.com is a comprehensive database of courses that can be used to find a program that suits you. Select a location, and then look for music education programs under the "Teaching Specialties" tab. That way you can look through the available courses that are held in your area.
To teach in the U.S. you need to be an accredited teacher and teach according to regulatory state mandates. Therefore, education programs have similar course content to ensure all teachers work according to set guidelines. Topics include classroom management, research and design techniques and behavioral management. If you opt for a single subject credential, however, you learn teaching strategies specific to music. For example, at the University of California it is possible to learn about how music is an effective tool to teach autistic children.