HOW TO MAKE MONEY AS A MUSIC TEACHER IN KENYA

Ways to make extra money as a music teacher in Kenya  

Teaching music is a rewarding career, but relying solely on private lessons (which pay around Ksh1500- KSh 3,000 per session) may not always be enough. If you’re looking to boost your income, here
are some practical and achievable ways to make extra money as a music teacher in Kenya.

 1. Offer Online Music Lessons  

With the rise of digital learning, you can expand beyond physical classes.  

- How? Use platforms like Zoom, Skype, or pre-record lessons on YouTube.  

- Earnings: Charge KSh 1,500 – 2,500 per online session (lower overhead costs mean more profit).  

- Bonus: Sell recorded video courses on Udemy or your own website.  

 2. Teach Group Classes (Schools & Churches)  

Private one-on-one lessons pay well, but group classes bring in more money at once.  

- Approach: Partner with schools, churches, or community centers.  

- Earnings: Charge KSh 5,000 – 15,000 per month per group (10+ students paying KSh 500–1,500 each).  

 3. Sell Sheet Music & Lesson Plans  

If you compose or arrange music, monetize your work.  

- How? Create and sell:  

  - Sheet music (KSh 500–2,000 per copy).  

  - Lesson plans for other teachers (KSh 1,000–3,000).  

- Platforms: Use Etsy, Gumroad, or WhatsApp marketing.  

 4. Perform at Events (Gigs & Weddings)  

Use your skills beyond teaching—perform live!  

- Opportunities:  

  - Weddings (KSh 10,000–30,000 per gig).  

  - Corporate events (KSh 5,000–20,000).  

  - Restaurants/hotels (weekly gigs for steady income).  about this please refer to my previous blog

 5. Start a YouTube channel or TikTok for musicians  

Monetize your knowledge by creating content.  

- Content Ideas:  

  - Music tutorials (guitar, piano, vocals).  

  - Behind-the-scenes of teaching.  

  - Reaction videos to Kenyan music.  

- Earnings: Ads, sponsorships, and Patreon donations.  

 6. Rent Out Your Instruments & Studio Space  

Got extra gear? Rent it out!  

- What You Can Rent:  

  - Keyboards (KSh 500–1,500 per day).  

  - Guitars (KSh 300–1,000 per day).  

  - Studio space for rehearsals (KSh 1,000–3,000 per hour).  

 7. Write & Sell Music for Ads, Films & Jingles  

Kenya’s creative industry is growing—sell your compositions.  

- Potential Clients:  

  - Ad agencies (KSh 10,000–50,000 per jingle).  

  - Local filmmakers (KSh 5,000–30,000 per soundtrack).  

- How to Start: Network on LinkedIn or join Facebook groups for creatives.  

 8. Become a Music Examiner or Competition Judge  

If you’re certified, this is a great side hustle.  

- Opportunities:  

  - KNEC/KMTA exams (KSh 2,000–5,000).  

  - School music competitions (KSh 3,000–10,000 per event).  

My thoughts

You don’t have to rely only on private lessons—diversify! Whether it’s online teaching, gigs, selling sheet music, or YouTube, there are plenty of ways to earn an extra KSh 20,000–100,000 per month as a music teacher in Kenya.  

Which of these ideas will you try first? Let me know in the comments! 🎵💰  

#Musicteacherkenya #Sidehustles #MakemoneyOnline #KenyanMusicians