Whether we like it or not, we're in a hooked on technology age where many parents start their search for a music teacher online. A website (one that is done right) is a powerful marketing tool as it gives you a professional image, provides information, and can set you apart from your competitors. When prospective students and parents click on your site, they can get a good idea of your program and whether you will be a good match.

If you have a chance, check out my 

On it you will find information for prospective students:

My students love the site too, because they can see their performances and information about our schedule.

You can even have a section on the site that only your students can see with things like contact information and an updated calender.

Hiring someone to build your site can be very costly, but you will get what you pay for.

I never could have created my website without freelance designer and writer Kim Lambert. She helped me craft my message and develop a look I liked. You might know or be able to find someone in your area to do the same.
     If you can't afford or can't trade services with a web designer, consider using a template that helps you create your own site. Check out Open Source Web Design's free templates.

Another alternative is to sign up with a company that promotes music teachers. Some offer just a listing while others help you build a webpage. These sites will pop up higher than your private site. They charge a fairly low monthly fee and will allow you to post your profile with your own URL that you can put on your cards and brochures. Here is a list of a few of them:

• Teachstreet.com

• TakeLessons.com

• virtuosomusic.com

• Lessonrating.com
  

• musikalessons.com

• findpianolessons.com
  

• pianoteachers.com

• privatelessons.com
  

• This product helps you run your studio and offers a free website Music Teachers Helper.

• Handmade Designs the premier provider for MTNA affiliates designing their websites
  

     And of course, if you are an MTNA member, National Flute Association member, or belong to a local or national organization for your instrument, be sure to take advantage of their teacher listings.

Students will not be running to your door because you have a pretty website.

They may more easily find you through a computer search and be more willing to sign up with you when they see how professional you are and can learn about your program.

But students will flock to you because you are a great teacher.

I don't care if you walk around wearing a sandwich board or have the Goodyear Blimp carry your message. Word of mouth is still your best advertisement, and people will carry your message when they are satisfied customers.

So, in your quest to have more students, remember to focus first on being an effective teacher.

Tired of saying the same things over and over? Make learning fun!

Instead of teaching your students the order of the musical periods week after week, have a contest to see who can create the most memorable mnemonic for:

Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Contemporary.

Here are the winners in my studio: