A music professor teaches college students to play, write, analyze and understand music, and usually also performs, composes or researches. Most hires hold a master's (about half) or a doctorate (about a third), so this path runs from building real musicianship, through graduate study and a teaching portfolio, to a tenure-track or full-time post. You will learn the craft first, because students trust a teacher who can demonstrate. Then you learn how to teach it, because demonstrating is not the same as teaching. Finally you build the record (performances, compositions, publications) that commi
See the full roadmap free
Every stage from beginner to expert, with lessons, practice drills, projects, interview questions and free resources. Free with a Rolearch account.
Stage 1 of 3 · about 40 weeks
Build solid musicianship and the core theory, aural and history knowledge that every music degree assumes, so you are ready to apply to a bachelor's or master's program.
Music theory and notation
Theory is the shared language of every music class you will teach. If you can explain why a progression works, you can teach anyone.
Aural skills (ear training)
You will grade dictation and sight-singing and correct students by ear in real time. Your ear must be faster than theirs.
Primary instrument or voice and performance
Explaining and demonstrating technique is the first core task of the job. Admissions and auditions test your performing level directly.
Music history and listening
You will lecture on styles and periods, and graduate entrance exams test history. Knowing context makes your teaching of performance richer.
Music technology basics
Professors prepare handouts, notate scores, record student work and use an LMS. Basic tech skills are expected.
Then 2 more stages (about 300 weeks in all) with lessons, drills, projects, 6 interview questions with strong answers and free resources.