Selecting a Private Instructor - Mel Bay Publications, Inc

Has the candidate/instructor had any formal training in teaching? While it is true that many great private instructors have not had formal instruction in the art of teaching, many have. Universities and colleges offer guitar pedagogy courses which train prospective private instructors how to teach. This training may also include some form of "student teaching" in which the future teacher's teaching is reviewed and critiqued.
Did the teacher study privately at some time? If the teacher has at some time studied privately himself/herself, and had a positive experience with the teacher, there is a good chance the positive characteristics of their teacher will be mirrored and passed on. You may want to ask who the teacher studied with.
Can the teacher play? It is not necessary for the teacher to be a phenomenal performer, especially if they are teaching beginning or intermediate students. In fact, some of the finest players are poor teachers, and some fantastic teachers are only adequate players. However, the teacher should be able to demonstrate to some degree that which is expected of the student. The best combination is if the teacher can teach and play. The old adage "those who can't... teach" is not true. Those who can... can, and often are excellent teachers.
Does the teacher have a pleasant personality? It is important that the teacher be nice, understanding, fun, patient, and set high standards. A good teacher should be understanding of the challenges faced by the student, but a good teacher will also requires practice and dedication on the part of the student.
Does the teacher have a plan? Ask the teacher what book(s) he/she uses. While any text can be supplemented with other material, the teacher should use a good method book. They may recommend several books for different styles.
Does the teacher have the students play in recitals regularly? This should be a must. Not only does it show the teacher's level of dedication, but it also shows the expectations of students performing, and shows that the teacher understands the importance performance plays in the musical development of the student.
How much are the lessons? The price of private lessons will vary greatly from teacher to teacher and from location to location. Check in the area and discover the average private lesson fee. If a particular teacher charges a lot more, ask why. They may be charging more because of their teaching or playing qualifications, or maybe it is ego. Be cautious of the latter.
Where are the lessons given? Does the teacher teach in a studio, in a store, at an office, at a school or an apartment? If the teacher teaches at home, it should be done in an office, family room, or some space which would be comfortable for the student and the parents of the student. If the teacher wants to give lessons in his or her room at the frat or sorority house, look for a different teacher or recommend the teacher teach in a suitable place.
How long have some of the students been studying with the teacher? If the teacher has been teaching in the area for three years and the longest a student has studied with him/her is eight weeks, something is probably wrong. A qualified instructor retains students.
Ask students who are studying with the teacher if they are satisfied and like the teacher. Don't be afraid to get references from the teacher and ask around the area (music stores, schools, other music teachers) to check on the reputation of the teacher. After all, this is quite an investment... both financially and otherwise. This teacher will be having a huge effect on the life of the student.