30 Music Teacher Interview Questions & Answers
1. What are your thoughts on competition in music?
How to Answer
Competition can be a great way for students to strengthen their skills. But, competition can be spoiled, if it is not looked at through the right lens. Share with the interviewer how you gauge competition to allow students the best opportunities in life.
Answer Example
"Competition helps students in a lot of ways. But, if it is used to pressure or threaten, competition should not be used in that manner. I want students to compete, so they get feedback on their performance. Then, they can grow and develop in a positive way."
User-Submitted Answer
"I love competitions. It gives great feedback to the choir directors on what we need to work on. Try to take it with a grain of salt and students tend to be very sensitive and defensive about it, especially at this age."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Why do you love competitions? Can you talk about some that you have been involved in or led? Does the students' sensitivity indicate that perhaps competition in music isn't advantageous for them at this age? Think through this and then discuss how the kids either benefit from these competitions or don't. Show your excitement about helping them in this way (or preferring to teach them in other ways).
2. Speak about a time you partnered with another colleague to help enhance music in your classroom.
How to Answer
Partnership is essential for education. The more teachers are connected with others, there are less feelings of isolation and more feelings of hope and value. Share about successful collaboration you have been a part of in the past that grew student learning.
Answer Example
"I collaborated with the gym teacher a few years back. We worked to create a musical game that involved physical fitness. Students enjoyed the game because it was interactive and they got to play musical instruments."
User-Submitted Answer
"Our holiday concert. we had danced in our program as well as special ed students who swang with their teachers in the opening of the concert. So I SHARED my concert with them."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
It's wonderful that you incorporated special education and dance students in your concert. Can you talk more about how you worked with these teachers to make the concert successful? Why did you choose to include them? How did the concert end up? Did your students and/or the special education and dance students benefit from this collaboration? Consider mentioning how excited you are to collaborate with various teachers in this new role. Nice job!
3. What does your classroom atmosphere look like?
How to Answer
A classroom atmosphere is imperative for learning. Share with the interviewer how you have your class organized. This way, they can catch the vision of how you would organize your classroom.
Answer Example
"In my classroom, I want learning all around. On one wall, I have different musical instrument posters. On the ceiling, I like to put the treble and bass clef with different notes to enhance learning. Putting things all over the place keeps students' attention on music."
User-Submitted Answer
"I build a safe classroom environment. We come into our special spot and start with hello songs and solfeggio with rhythm. Then we get our books and come to the circle for our lesson. Then we put books away for a game that we usually have."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
It's great that you strive to make your classrooms safe. How exactly do you ensure your students' safety? Do you make them feel both emotionally and physically safe? Do you also try to make your classroom fun and engaging? How? Really give the interviewer an idea of the type of classroom atmosphere you create and how this benefits the students so they can envision you doing it at their school. Good job!
4. Explain a time you connected music with another subject in class.
How to Answer
Connecting music with other subjects is a must in education. Speak to a time you collaborated to make your lesson that much better. Students really do learn better when they have a fuller perspective of the subject.
Answer Example
"I spent time teaching students about Mozart last year. To help them get a better understanding of the musician, I incorporated some history about him, like where he lived and his lifestyle. The students were surprised by Mozart's backstory."
User-Submitted Answer
"We sang songs about fish. They asked students what types of fish are in the sea."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Is there another example you can provide that shows a deeper connection between music and another subject? If not, give the interviewer a more thorough explanation of how this connection impacted your students. Talk about why you tried to make this connection. Discuss why it's important to make connections between music and other subjects in the first place.
5. What is your background in the Suzuki methodology?
How to Answer
Suzuki is over 50 years old, and its benefits are innumerable. As one of the most common music techniques, an interviewer may very well ask you your thoughts on the practice. Be ready to explain how you have used it or what value it could bring to students.
Answer Example
"I have used the Suzuki method over my last ten years of teaching. I love the approach because it brings parents into the picture to help with their kids. This creates multi-levels of teaching for students to enhance their musical understanding."
User-Submitted Answer
"Suzuki IMO is great for string players but not ideal for piano students. Ear developed while reading skills not. The goal is for the two to meet. Most times it does not."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
It's great that you have this knowledge about the Suzuki methodology. How did you learn it? Do you have experience applying this methodology in your teaching? If so, talk about this. Also, be sure to give a full and clear explanation of what this methodology is so the interviewer is aware of how knowledgeable you are about this subject.
6. What is your music philosophy?
How to Answer
Every music teacher needs a philosophy. When you bring this to an interview, an interviewer will be extra impressed that you took the time. As you care deeply for your subject, an interviewer will see that, and you will have a better chance of being hired.
Answer Example
"My music philosophy is simple. I want students to see the beauty of culture through music. With this in mind, students will reap the benefits of being well-rounded individuals who care for others that are different than them. They will see that we are more similar than once thought."
User-Submitted Answer
"I want to ignite a love and passion for music in students. They do not need to become professional musicians, but only to appreciate the arts."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Why is this important to you? And how do you incorporate this philosophy when you teach? This will matter to the interviewer, so be sure to give lots of details about what you think about this topic.
7. How do you develop community through music?
How to Answer
Building community is a great way to create relationships at a school. Music does this in the way students work together to complete a song. Share how you have seen this play out during your teaching career.
Answer Example
"At my last position, I was able to place students together in music ensembles. Students worked together to complete pieces. In the process, students had fun and even made some new friends. Now, that is what I call community."
User-Submitted Answer
"After School clubs I find are one of the best. Students that love music tend to attend. HONOR CHOIR as well."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
How do after-school clubs create student communities? In what ways are you involved in after-school clubs? Do you run any? What is the honor choir and does it encourage the students to build connections and bonds? The more details you can provide, the better!
8. What question do you have about the vacant position?
How to Answer
When an interviewer asks you if you have any questions, make sure you have one prepared. Without a question to ask, the interviewer may feel you do not care as much as other candidates. So, check through the website and come up with a few questions that the interviewer could answer.
Answer Example
"As I was looking on your website, I noticed the last music teacher had a musical festival at the school. It looked like it raised money for the school. Can you tell me more about this and the expectations for the festival?"
User-Submitted Answer
"How many students did the music teacher have?"
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
That's a good question to ask. Just make sure it's not one that you can figure out the answer to by conducting your own research. It's important that your question(s) are thoughtful and meaningful.
9. When should students use musical instruments in your class?
How to Answer
Musical instruments are a treat for most students. But, there should be a process, so students understand they have to earn playing with and on musical instruments. This way, everything will fall in order and the interviewer can understand your protocol for this focus.
Answer Example
"I love using musical instruments in my classroom. However, students only get to use them on special occasions. They have to work hard for the privilege. I usually teach concepts first that students need to know before playing the instruments. If they have mastered the concepts, then we can use the instruments."
User-Submitted Answer
"We teach music concepts all throughout K-3 so by the 4th grade we can introduce recorders."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Great. Has this strategy worked for you in the past? How well do the students do with the recorders? Can you talk about your personal experience teaching musical instruments in class and how the children respond to this?
10. How do you create a lesson plan?
How to Answer
The process of a lesson plan is not supposed to take a few seconds. Lesson plans are meticulously thought out and tied to grade level standards. Speak to the interviewer on how you develop and follow through with your plans.
Answer Example
"To create my lesson plans, I start with the standards. I then add pre and post assessments with an activity involved to hit the point home. I also have an alternative plan for students who need a little more help. This way, I have covered all my bases."
User-Submitted Answer
"introduction, development, and closure"
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Can you talk in more detail about what this means? Consider including an example of a time when you created a lesson plan that resonated with your students and explain the steps you took to build it. You want the interviewer to know that you're capable of producing effective lesson plans.
11. What do you do with students who do not like your class?
How to Answer
Not all students will like music. But, the sign of a quality music teacher is one who can meet them at their level. Speak with the interviewer on how you will bridge the gap for this kind of student.
Answer Example
"There was a student last year who did not like my class at the beginning of the year. He only thought we were going to do classical and boring music. But, when I added some classic rock, the student was excited and starting interacting with the rest of the class in a whole new way. I knew that if I could appeal to his interests, he would begin to enjoy the class."
User-Submitted Answer
"I try to expose them to all different kinds of music. I might ask" Mary, what is your favorite type of music? Can you sing it for us or teach it to us?"
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Give an example of a time when a student appeared not to enjoy your class and walk the interviewer through the steps you took to handle this situation. In the end, did the student start to enjoy your class? Why? Show the interviewer that you are capable of engaging even the students who don't have an innate love of music.
12. How have you changed your teaching style in the last two years?
How to Answer
A teaching style is always morphing into something new. The interviewer wants to see how you are still learning as an educator. Give a specific example to your style developing through the years.
Answer Example
"My teaching style has developed over the last two years in the realm of classroom management. At first, I had limited protocols in place to manage my students. It was organized chaos, at best. After working with another colleague, I was able to fine tune my classroom management skills to better my students' classroom experience."
User-Submitted Answer
"We are always changing as teaching and growing in our craft. I was a bit more strict with my middle schoolers while building relationships. In elementary, I definitely wanted to build relationships and find out that music is fun."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
In what ways were you more strict? Why did you feel the need to be stricter with the older kids? Be careful about implying that you were dispassionate and/or unkind. Why do you believe you should act differently with elementary-age children? Also, you might consider emphasizing your teaching style and how it has evolved more than your personal connection with students. Did you used to be less hands-on, for instance, but have become more involved as the years have gone by? Have you changed the teaching method you follow because you've found that one is more effective than another?
13. How would most of your former students describe you?
How to Answer
Not all students will like you. An interviewer knows this. But, they want to get a perspective of how the general population views you. If students have positive things to say, the new school will probably say the same thing.
Answer Example
"Most of my former students would say I am a kind teacher who cares for their well-being. Even though I am strict and a rule-follower, they understand I have the best intentions in mind. I would say a good amount of former students would also say that I make learning fun."
14. How much administrative support do you need for success?
How to Answer
Administrative support is vital to any successful teacher. But, some teachers need more administrative support than others. Be honest with the interviewer on how much you need to be successful.
Answer Example
"I do value administrative support. But, I certainly do not need to overwhelm with all sorts of questions. I'm comfortable going to administration when I am selecting pieces for my concerts and when I am struggling with a student who I need extra assistance with."
User-Submitted Answer
"I definitely love to have us on the same page but certainly do not want to overwhelm them and give them my problems. I definitely want to be able to solve them myself."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
It's great that you like to handle administrative tasks on your own with minimal support. Given this is the area you cited as a weakness, it's important that you explain the methods and tools you use to handle these kinds of tasks successfully. Talk to the interviewer about how you plan to manage the administrative work that comes along with this role.
15. What is your discipline style like?
How to Answer
Every teacher has their own discipline style. An interviewer may not care what your style is, as long as you have one. This way, they know you have a plan in place and enough experience to successfully lead your classroom.
Answer Example
"When it comes to my discipline style, I have protocols in place that students follow. As students listen and interact, I have rewards for them. If they do not follow directions, there are consequences that follow. This has worked well for me over the years."
User-Submitted Answer
"I have protocols in place. We go over them at the beginning of the year. I constantly try to reinforce them throughout. If problems occur I talk to the teacher and at times have called mom and dad."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
It sounds like you have good discipline procedures in place. Can you talk more about these rules and how you enforce them? Can you give an example of a time you had to discipline a student and what the outcome was? Use the STAR method to explain the situation, your role and actions, and what the result was.
16. Why are you a great candidate for this music teacher position?
How to Answer
Selling yourself is the trick here. Make sure to speak about your experience, your passion for teaching, and your schooling. This way, the interviewer can get the fullest of perspective on who you are.
Answer Example
"I believe I am a great candidate for this position for a few reasons. First off, I have the experience of teaching the last 15 years in a similar position. Secondly, I have a passion for music, and I am excited to teach everyday. My education from the University of Virginia has prepared me for a career in music."
User-Submitted Answer
"I have both a vocal education degree in music and a Master of Music in Piano Performance."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
It's great that you have an educational background in music, but how does this make you a great candidate for this role? Talk more about the knowledge you possess and how this will benefit your students. What other qualities, skills, and experience do you have that make you the best candidate for this position? Take this opportunity to really sell yourself!
17. Are ensemble trips valuable to you? Why or why not?
How to Answer
Ensemble trips can be a rewarding experience for students. But, it can take a lot of time that might not be available for all students. By weighing the pros and cons, share with the interviewer what you think about the subject and why you feel this way.
Answer Example
"I believe ensemble trips are great experiences for students. But, I do understand that a lot goes into planning this. Things will not always work for all students. So, I would provide opportunities to students, but if they could not go, there would be no penalty. There is a lot to do in this world, and I do not want my students to get overwhelmed."
User-Submitted Answer
"Yes. Planning is a lot, but students look forward to these trips and remember so much of what they experienced and learned."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Excellent. Why do the students like these trips so much? Can you talk about a time when you planned this type of trip and explain how it impacted your students? What did they learn? Show the interviewer how capable you are in this area and why it's important to you that the children experience these kinds of events. Good job!
18. How do you feel about supervising events outside the normal school day?
How to Answer
To get a job, sometimes you have to go above and beyond. If you are willing to work extra, it may be easier for you to get a job. If you are unwilling, do not expect to get hired for this job.
Answer Example
"I would be willing to work outside the normal school day. I believe this job would fit my style and the community would be strengthened in the process. So, if things are communicated ahead of time for me to plan, I would be happy to help."
User-Submitted Answer
"Having duty has actually helped me get to know students more on a one-on-one basis because it is outside the classroom."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
It's great that you've built stronger student connections by supervising events outside of school. What kinds of events have you been involved in and in what capacity? Can you talk more about the bonds this has fostered? Show that you are eager to engage with the children in this way so you can inspire a passion for music in them.
19. What makes you want to teach at this school?
How to Answer
An interviewer wants to see if you have done your homework studying up on the potential school. If you do not study up on the school, the interviewer may think you do not care about the school you are trying to get hired at. So, show you care and get to understanding your possible school.
Answer Example
"As I was scrolling through your website, I noticed your page on community. I was instantly drawn to the fact that this school is like a family. I wanted to be a part of this from the get-go. A school like this can reap positivity overall."
User-Submitted Answer
"I love the culturally diverse students that attend Dearborn. I am a first-generation child of parents who are from Serbia. So I can relate to so many aspects of teaching."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
This is a good response because you provide some personal information about yourself that will interest the interviewer. You also explain why the school's diversity appeals to you, which is great. How will your own ethnicity and experience benefit the students of varying cultures that you teach at this school? Explain why this makes you the perfect fit for this role. Also, what else about the school makes you desire to work there?
20. Why did you leave your last job?
How to Answer
Leaving a job is usually a difficult process. But, an interviewer wants to understand what the process was like for you. They want to make sure they are making the right hire, and not someone who was toxic at their last job.
Answer Example
"I left my last job because my husband got a job out here. I really did like my last job because of the community. But, my husband got an offer that we could not refuse."
User-Submitted Answer
"I was personally invited by the choral director to apply since she knew about my past teaching experiences in Middle School.
I wanted to support their program and CCSD and apply. But a year of teaching secondary has only confirmed that I really enjoy and miss teaching elementary."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
It's understandable that you prefer teaching elementary students over secondary ones and good that you've figured this out about yourself. It will impress the interviewer that the choral director personally asked you to apply to your last job (it's nice that you're in demand!) End your response by reminding the interviewer why this role is the one that you want and why you'll excel in it. Good job!
21. What is the last workshop you attended?
How to Answer
Attending workshops gives you a better sense of how to be a better teacher. You get to connect with other music teachers, take in top-notch material, and have fun in the process. Describe to the interviewer what your experience was like.
Answer Example
"The Recording Academy professional organization put on a clinic last year about the recording process. My eyes were opened to the process. But, I learned so much about recording and was able to record one of my classes soon after. All the experience was gained from The Recording Academy."
User-Submitted Answer
"Orff 2019 I
Musicplayonline 2020
This year I was going to attend Orff Level II but with interviewing and applying being my main focus, I decided not to take it right now."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Can you talk about why you decided to attend Orff 2019 and Musicplayonline 2020 and what you learned at both? How will your learnings benefit you and your students in this role? Don't mention the workshop that you didn't attend because that takes away from the workshops you DID attend. Show the interviewer that you enjoy learning and staying up on the new trends and tools in the industry. Good job!
22. Describe a professional organization you are a part of.
How to Answer
Professional organizations are essential in the life of any educator. When you are a part of one, there are resources and materials to use to better you as a teacher. Connecting with a professional organization will really impress your interviewer.
Answer Example
"I am a part of the American Composers Forum. This organization has been a great way to help my students compose and write on their own. It has opened doors I never thought possible for me and my students."
User-Submitted Answer
"ACDA
NMEA"
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
What is ACDA NMEA? What is your role in the organization? How does it influence your teaching? Do you plan to continue being involved in this organization at this new school?
23. Share a strength and a weakness you have.
How to Answer
Every teacher has strengths and weaknesses in education. An interviewer knows this, but will not judge you for it. They just want to see how you work to improve your weaknesses and use your strengths to your advantage.
Answer Example
"As a teacher, my weakness is organizing lessons. Over the years, I have worked with other colleagues to help organize my lessons more efficiently. It has been a great lesson for me, as a I work to hone my craft. Creativity is one of my biggest strengths, which I believe helps in my lesson plans."
User-Submitted Answer
"My strength is my passion and enthusiasm for the arts. Administration work is not my favorite part of teaching, and have to set reminders and maybe quickly rewrite directions so I don't forget how to do certain tasks."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Can you talk more about how your passion and enthusiasm for the arts have benefited your students and made you a great teacher? Really try to show the interviewer how your strengths make you the best candidate for this role. When it comes to your weakness, discuss in more detail the steps you are taking to overcome it. Include an example that shows how setting reminders and rewriting directions have improved your ability to handle administrative tasks that you don't enjoy as much. Great job!
24. Share about your favorite music teacher. Why did they make such an impact on you?
How to Answer
Many people are led to become teachers because of an experience that changed their lives forever. The interviewer wants to hear the story about your experience with music. The more detail, the better here.
Answer Example
"When I was a senior in high school, I really wanted to be done. But, my music teacher was the reason I pushed forward in my life. She inspired me to work hard and grow talents I never knew I had. This is the kind of teacher I want to be."
User-Submitted Answer
"My choral Director and my piano teacher. My choral director taught us so much about vocal technique and genres of music. The piano teacher loved competitions. Both did competitions."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
How old were you when you were influenced by your choral director and piano teacher? Elementary school age? High school? College? What was inspiring about them to you personally? What did they teach you? Finally, did you compete? If so, what did you gain from this experience? Show the interviewer how these folks changed your life!
25. What personality characteristics should not be involved in teaching?
How to Answer
There are some personal qualities that have no place in a safe and supported classroom. The interviewer wants to see if you know what these no-nos are. This way, they can trust that you will never have these kinds of issues in your classroom.
Answer Example
"One personality characteristic that should not be in teaching is sarcasm. It can really hurt a student, especially those who cannot distinguish a joke from the truth. With this in mind, I keep these characteristics out of my teaching repertoire."
User-Submitted Answer
"Be careful of joking around with students too much. Sensitive students will take it to heart. No sarcasm."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
So you try not to be sarcastic. This makes sense. What else? How about lacking compassion and kindness, being dismissive of the children's feelings and opinions, and not showing interest in them? List several characteristics that students shouldn't be exposed to and assure the interviewer that you don't act like this. Mention some of the positive qualities you instead offer and explain how they benefit the children.
26. What is the best asset you possess as a music teacher?
How to Answer
Every teacher has the thing they are best at. Share with the interviewer your best quality and how it impacts the classroom for the better. This way, the interviewer can get a sense of what assets you would bring to the school.
Answer Example
"My best asset, as a music teacher, is classroom management. When I keep students in line, we are able to get a lot of fun, music activity done each time we have class. The students know this, as well, so they stay attentive and ready for what is next."
User-Submitted Answer
"I have a Master of Music Degree and an Education degree. A Music Education degree sets me up to become a great teacher, and a Performance degree helps not only in performances and what is expected but how to teach new skills to students."
Written by an Anonymous User
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
The interviewer will be happy to hear that you have such a strong background and education in music. So perhaps your best asset is knowledge about how to teach music and lead performances? Consider restructuring your answer so it focuses on this strength. Try to include an example that shows how your knowledge has contributed to your ability to be an effective teacher. Nice job!
27. How do you select music for concerts?
How to Answer
Musical selection for concerts can be one of the most exciting, yet time consuming parts of being a music teacher. There are a lot of things that go into the planning process. The teacher needs to live up to school standards, as well as pick music that students can enjoy being a part of.
Answer Example
"When I pick music for concerts, I first make sure I pick my pieces based on the approval of the administration. I do not want to go over their heads because having their support is imperative. Next, I want to have songs available to my students that they will love because we will be practicing them for awhile."
User-Submitted Answer
"I choose from three genres of music: 1) A language piece 2) spiritual 3) Madrigal or a fun piece."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Nice! Why do you choose music from these genres in particular? Are there any other considerations that come into play when you make your decision? And can you include an example of a time when you chose music for a concert and discuss why your selections were good ones?
28. Share an experience where you worked with a special education student on music.
How to Answer
As classrooms are become more inclusive spaces, more and more teachers are working with special education students. The interviewer wants to know your experience and how you have handled situations with special education students before. Speak about the patience you have and lessons already created for all learners.
Answer Example
"Two years ago, I taught a special education student in my general music class. There was also an aide helping the student out. I treated the student like any other, and got her playing the bongos during class. When things got a little too difficult, I had another option ready to go for the student."
User-Submitted Answer
"Daniel was visually impaired but had a beautiful voice. He added so much to our choirs. The girls loved having him there and included him. It was a pleasure to see."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
The beginning of your answer piques the interest of your listener but then lacks in-depth details. What was your role in encouraging Daniel to sing? What challenges did he have to overcome within the class due to his disability? In the end, how did Daniel benefit from his inclusion in your music class? Go deeper so your response is meaningful and memorable to the interviewer!
29. How important is music to overall education?
How to Answer
It is no secret that music has been cut more and more across the United States of America. But, the schools that keep music know its value. Speak to how music helps students in the rest of their lives.
Answer Example
"It is no secret that music helps students with their grades and in their lives. When I teach music, students get a well-rounded experience. Then, they become life-long learners in the process. This is what I want to give them day in and day out."
User-Submitted Answer
"Students that have a well-grounded music education will do better in their subjects."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Why do you believe this? Do you have any evidence that you can cite to back this claim up? Can you include an example of how music helped you or a student you taught and explain how?
30. What has inspired you to become a music teacher?
How to Answer
Music can inspire people in many different ways. Share about a time where music impacted you in a way you never thought was possible. Then, the interviewer can see your passion for the subject.
Answer Example
"When I first started high school, I took a music appreciation class, where I was subject to new genres I had never heard before. From this experience, I was able to experience music in a whole new way. In turn, it helped me grow in greater measure with the kind of music I took in and later performed."
User-Submitted Answer
"My choir director and piano teacher inspired a love and passion for the arts which I wanted to ignite and share with my students."
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Marcie Wilmot Reviewed the Above Answer
Awesome! Can you talk more about your choir director and piano teacher? Why did you find them inspirational? The more details you can give the more memorable your answer will be to the interviewer. Consider including an example from recent times that shows how teaching music ignited this love and passion for the arts in one of your students. Good job!