What Is My Ultimate Goal as an Online Music Teacher?

For better or worse, my life has gravitated toward becoming a competent banjo player. I picked up my first banjo in 2006 at the ripe age of 18. From the beginning, I knew I never wanted to be in a band—my public speaking anxiety and paralyzing stage fright wouldn’t have allowed it. But that was never the reason I wanted to learn. I wanted to play purely for the love of it.

For years, it was a personal passion, something I enjoyed in solitude. It’s only in the past year or so that I’ve realized I would love to teach what I know. I’m not an expert, nor do I claim to be. But I can play competently, and, more importantly, I know how to break down ideas into structured, manageable lessons. So why not teach?

Why Online Teaching?

I learned the banjo through YouTube, and for me, it worked. But I know that online learning isn’t for everyone—some people prefer in-person, one-on-one lessons, and that’s completely fine. But the idea of being able to teach people across the world? That’s something incredible.

I don’t expect to become rich from teaching banjo. Right now, my goal is simple: if I can cover the costs of running my website, I’ll be happy. But my ultimate goal goes beyond finances. Banjo Adventures is my life project—something I can pour my heart into and continue to build, even into retirement.

I’m 37 now. When I reach, say, 57, I want to be established in the banjo world as someone who has helped countless people learn at least the basics of this wonderful instrument. Hopefully, future me will look back at this blog post and be proud of what Banjo Adventures has become.

Building Something That Lasts

As I write this, my website has been live for just over a month. A couple of weeks ago, I got my first paying member. That moment was exciting—but also terrifying. Now my biggest challenge is making sure every person who joins truly feels they’re getting real value for their money. Every penny I earn in these early years is going straight back into this project, helping it grow.

I want Banjo Adventures to become more than just an online learning space—I want it to be a thriving community of players who support each other, learn together, and grow in confidence. No egos, no attitudes—just a friendly, welcoming place where beginners feel empowered to learn and become great players.

A Retirement That Inspires

Too many people retire and fade away because they lose their sense of purpose. If you rest, you rust.

I once knew a man named Maddog, a dedicated railway track inspector. He worked seven days a week, rarely taking a break, because he loved what he did. His managers had to force him to take his annual leave because he didn’t want to take any days off. But when he finally retired, he was gone within the year. He hadn’t even started claiming his pension contributions.

That story has always stuck with me. As much as the idea of retirement appeals, the thought of having nothing to do scares me more than a seven-day workweek. I want to wake up each day with a purpose. I want to keep teaching, keep learning, and keep sharing my love of the banjo for as long as I can.

The Road Ahead

My heart and soul are going into this project. I hope that, in the years to come, Banjo Adventures grows into something I can be proud of—a place where great friendships are formed, where students feel supported, and where the joy of playing the banjo is shared far and wide.

So if you’re reading this, thank you for being part of the journey. This is just the beginning, and I can’t wait to see where it takes us.